ASEAN urges US to be 'positive force' in Indo-Pacific: Widodo

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
7 Sep 2023 10:27

The Indonesian President emphasizes that a "robust and enduring partnership" would be advantageous for both ASEAN and the US.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo speaks during the 43rd ASEAN summit retreat session in Jakarta, Indonesia, on September 5, 2023. (AP)

On Wednesday, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, representing the member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), put forth a proposal for the US to lead collaborative efforts in the Indo-Pacific region, aiming to promote peace and stability.

"ASEAN invites the US to be a 'positive force' in creating a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific through a tangible and inclusive cooperation," Widodo said in opening remarks to the 11th ASEAN-US Summit, where the US is represented by Vice President Kamala Harris.

The United States has an enduring commitment to Southeast Asia. At the U.S.-ASEAN Summit and the East Asia Summit in Jakarta, we will build on our continued work to deliver results for the people of our nations and the world. pic.twitter.com/3CdD3Tokq8
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) September 6, 2023

The Indonesian President emphasized that a "robust and enduring partnership" would be advantageous for both ASEAN and the US.

Nevertheless, he underscored that "this partnership can only come to fruition through a firm commitment from both parties to uphold peace and stability in the region."

During his introductory address at the 43rd ASEAN Summit on Tuesday, President Widodo stated that the member states of ASEAN had reached a consensus to refuse to act as proxies for any major powers amid escalating global tensions.

They also committed to preventing the region from turning into "a battleground for rivalries."

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises ten member states, namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

These nations are collectively projected to contribute 5.4% of the global GDP by 2045. Indonesia currently holds the rotating chair for the year 2023 within the organization, which is dedicated to nurturing political and economic collaboration among its member states.