US President Joe Biden attends the 9th ASEAN-US Summit on October 26, 2021. (Photo: AFP)

This is the second special summit since 2016 and the first in-person engagement for ASEAN and US leaders since 2017, Cambodia said in a statement.

ASEAN leaders and President Joe Biden will discuss ways to intensify cooperation in COVID-19 response and global health security, climate change, sustainable development, maritime issues, human capital development, education and people-to-people ties, as well as connectivity and economic engagement.

They will also exchange views on regional and international issues of common concern, chart the future direction of ASEAN-US relations, and seek to enhance the strategic partnership for the mutual benefit of the people of ASEAN and the US.

The special summit will also reiterate the shared commitment to uphold ASEAN's centrality and unity through the existing ASEAN-led mechanisms, as well as to foster mutual trust and confidence to maintain peace, stability and prosperity in the region.