JAKARTA, JAKTIMES.COM – President Joko Widodo encourages all ASEAN members to reaffirm their commitment to making Southeast Asia a peaceful and prosperous region. Despite the current global dynamics being challenging, President Jokowi believes that ASEAN will be able to overcome these challenges.
“ASEAN is an example of harmonious diversity, mutual complementarity, and strength. There are differences among nations, but they do not hinder us from realizing the determination and aspirations of ASEAN,” said the President in his speech at the 56th ASEAN Anniversary Celebration held at the Nusantara Hall, ASEAN Secretariat Building, on Tuesday, August 8, 2023.
According to the President, the demographic bonus and the world’s trust in ASEAN as a region with the best economic opportunities currently are strong assets for ASEAN to become the epicenter of economic growth. Therefore, the President encourages the proper utilization of this momentum.
“We must capitalize on this positive momentum to make ASEAN the future of the world, to make ASEAN an anchor of peace, stability, and global prosperity,” he stated.
As the ASEAN chair for the year 2023, Indonesia strives to lay a strong foundation so that ASEAN can play a central role in addressing global challenges. The President also invites all ASEAN countries to move forward together, as the responsibility for the lives of hundreds of millions of people rests within it.
“Let’s work together to make ASEAN the epicenter of growth,” he urged.
Accompanying the President at the event were ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Muhadjir Effendy, Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi, Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, and Acting Governor of Jakarta Heru Budi Hartono (Wan)
