BUSINESSBy Anas Abu Hassan KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- A conclusive economic partnership between ASEAN and the European Union (EU) could help cushion the impact of global trade uncertainties, an economist said. He said deeper EU-ASEAN cooperation would help shield both regions from spillover effects of the intensifying United States (US)-China rivalry. Yeah noted that EU-ASEAN ties have gained importance as an affirmation of multilateralism and as a counterweight to the US’s shift towards inward-looking policies. He added that both regions are seeking stronger partnerships to offset continued weakness in the global economy, particularly in the US and China. "The closer ties will enable countries in both regions to cope with the likely fragmentation of world markets and the reconfiguration of global supply chains," he said.