Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia after Inspecting the Preparation for the ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province, May 7, 2023

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

We have two days left. Everything is ready. God willing, everything is ready. Everything has been done. After Eid al-Fitr, we have checked everything, and everything is ready. Now it’s a matter of implementation.

Reporter

(inaudible)

What will be discussed at the ASEAN Summit?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Indonesia’s principle in the ASEAN chairmanship is collaboration and cooperation with all parties. ASEAN will not become a proxy for any party or any country. ASEAN will remain open to work with any party and any country. Thus, the solution to every problem in ASEAN should be reached by upholding the principle of dialogue. It is very important, especially in the issue of Myanmar.

Reporter

Will the issue of Myanmar be discussed at the Summit?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, that will be specifically discussed. Our parameter for Myanmar is the five-point consensus. We must carry out dialogue. I am of the view that sanctions are not part of the solution.

Reporter

…Myanmar… (inaudible)

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, that is our consensus. It was decided at the last ASEAN Summit. We aim to end the conflict in Myanmar immediately. First, the violence must stop immediately. Second, humanitarian aid must be provided for the people of Myanmar. Third, the dialogue. It is important that Myanmar plays an active role in the dialogue we are conducting.

Reporter

Reportedly, you will work at the office in Labuan Bajo?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

The Summit will be held here. We focus on the ASEAN Summit. All ministries and agencies will focus on the ASEAN Summit.

Reporter

… will involve communities… (inaudible)

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, I think everyone should be involved in the welcoming ceremony, in the preparation of the Summit, as well as in the preparation of homestays and hotels. The rooms available are not sufficient, so it should be supported by homestays. We also prepare vessels. We are holding the ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo to promote the place so that the world knows that Indonesia has Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara.

Reporter

… (inaudible)

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, I have previously said that the rooms available are not sufficient.

(RI/MMB)