Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Opening of the 11th ASEAN-United States Summit, September 6, 2023
Your Majesty, Excellencies Leaders of ASEAN,
Her Excellency Vice President Kamala Harris.
Southeast Asia is a very promising region with forecasts indicating that by 2045, it is projected to become the epicentrum of global trade and contribute 5.4 percent to the world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Therefore, a strong and sustainable partnership between ASEAN and the United States will definitely not only benefit ASEAN but also for the United States. Nevertheless, the partnership will only come to fruition with a strong commitment from both parties to uphold regional peace and stability.
Excellencies,
ASEAN has agreed to persist in its role as a driving force for regional peace and stability, while also highlighting the Indo-Pacific’s potential as a platform for collaboration. Hence, ASEAN invites the United States to become a positive force to foster a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific through tangible and inclusive cooperation.
I conclude my remarks, and I hereby declare the 11th ASEAN and the United States Summit open.
I welcome Her Excellency Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States to deliver her remarks. The floor is yours.
(RIF/MUR)