Indonesia Calls on Australia to Join ASEAN in Maintaining Peace and Stability in Indo-Pacific
President Joko Widodo is in a conversation with Australian PM Anthony Albanese prior to the 3rd ASEAN-Australia Summit, at JCC, Jakarta, Thursday (09/07). (Photo: Media Center of 2023 ASEAN Summit/ Dwi Prasetya/aww)
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has emphasized that Australia is not only a neighboring country, but also a strategic comprehensive partner for ASEAN and connects ASEAN with the Indo-Pacific region.
To that end, President Jokowi has appealed to Australia to join ASEAN in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and to make it an Epicentrum of Growth.
The President made the statement during the opening the 3rd ASEAN-Australia Summit at Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) in Jakarta, Thursday (09/07).
The President also stressed that ASEAN is an important trade partner for Australia with a higher trade value compared to that with the United States of America and Japan. Hence, whatever happens in Indo-Pacific region would create a big impact for both Australia and ASEAN, he added.
“ASEAN truly appreciates the support lent by Australia to ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and Australia’s active participation in ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum, especially active participation of Prime Minister Albanese,” he remarked.
In realizing ASEAN as an epicentrum of growth, the President stressed that ASEAN puts forward a principle of inclusive cooperation in the region.
“This year, ASEAN will ensure cooperation with the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Pacific Island Forum. ASEAN is also committed to continuing cooperation with Australia that brings mutual benefits,” he added.
In the meantime, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted at the ASEAN Indo Pacific Forum stated that ASEAN is an important partner for Australia and that Australia is committed to enhancing the collaboration with the region with a number of cooperation potentials, including in the sectors of agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and education.
“ASEAN’s centrality is crucial for Australia. We put the same trust in the region. ASEAN is the fate of Australia’s economy. We are building on a strong foundation and many more potentials to explore,” PM Albanese said in Jakarta, Wednesday (09/06). (TGH/UN) (AW/EP)
