It is important that Japan and ASEAN continue to grow together based on mutual trust and respect.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Japan is committed to strengthening its partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which is now entering its 50th year, Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa has said.

Speaking at the “Commemorative Symposium for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation” in Jakarta on Monday, he said that increasing cooperation with ASEAN is very important amid current geopolitical dynamics, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.

Japan was ASEAN's first dialogue partner and held the first informal dialogue in 1973 before finally formalizing relations in March 1977.

Since then, Japan and ASEAN have been working together not only in business, but also as true friends with “heart-to-heart relations" and cooperating for the peace, stability, and prosperity of the region, Yoshimasa said.

"It is important that Japan and ASEAN continue to grow together based on mutual trust and respect, upholding diversity and inclusiveness, and to lead the way in this new era," he remarked via video conferencing.

According to Yoshimasa, around December this year, Japan will hold a commemorative summit in Tokyo to mark the 50th year of the ASEAN-Japan partnership.

The summit will also unveil a new vision for ASEAN-Japan cooperation for the next 50 years, taking into account the critical international situation at this pivotal time.

The 50th year of ASEAN-Japan friendship and cooperation, which is themed "Golden Friendship, Golden Opportunity,” accurately describes the relations between the two partners, he added.

"Japan would like to move forward with the people of ASEAN so that we can lead a new era and grow together. I hope that all of you will continue to support us in furthering the relationship and cooperation between Japan and ASEAN," he said.

Meanwhile, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said that Japan's support is urgently needed by ASEAN to build a stable and peaceful Indo-Pacific region that promotes prosperity for all.

"Indonesia counts on Japan's support to (work) hand in hand with ASEAN to build the Indo-Pacific region into an epicentrum of growth. I hope ASEAN and Japan can strengthen their partnership based on mutual respect and mutual benefit," she said.

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Reporter: Shofi Ayudiana
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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