Jabar Ekspres – Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) recalled the purpose of the establishment of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN 56 years ago with the determination to make the region peaceful, stable and prosperous.
“Today, 56 years ago, ASEAN was formed with the determination to make Southeast Asia a peaceful, stable and prosperous region. And today I want us to reaffirm that spirit and determination,” President Jokowi said in his remarks at the commemoration of the 56th ASEAN Anniversary at the ASEAN Secretariat Building Jakarta, Tuesday.
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The President said that the challenges of the current global dynamics are not easy. Meanwhile, the global economy has not fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic, and rivalries between countries are getting sharper.
However, President Jokowi expressed confidence that ASEAN is able to face these global challenges as long as it continues to unite.
According to the President, ASEAN is an example of harmonious diversity that complements and strengthens each other. Although there are differences, it does not make it an obstacle for ASEAN member countries to realize their determination and ideals.
The President also emphasized that ASEAN must become an epicenter of growth that provides more benefits for the people in Southeast Asia and the world.
Therefore, Jokowi asked that ASEAN which has assets such as economic growth, demographic bonus trust, and the best economic opportunities must be utilized.
“We must utilize this momentum to make ASEAN the future of the world, as an anchor of peace, an anchor of stability, and an anchor of world prosperity,” Jokowi said.
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The President added that at the 43rd ASEAN Summit on September 5-7, Indonesia as the chairman wants to lay a strong foundation for ASEAN to be able to face challenges, respond to dynamics, and play a central role.