"We must further strengthen collaboration to maintain ASEAN as the epicentrum of growth, and our economic potential is still very large," President Jokowi stated while opening the ASEAN Leaders' Interface with Representatives of ASEAN-BAC here on Wednesday.
This optimism is based on the ASEAN's economy that is growing above the world average, demographic bonuses, and the middle class that continues to expand to reach 65 percent in 2020.
"Let us work closely together to formulate a common agenda to ensure that this region continues to be the epicenter of growth," President Jokowi affirmed.
The head of state emphasized that the ASEAN should be grateful that in the last three years, the region has successfully faced the COVID-19 pandemic owing to collaboration between the government and the business sector.
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However, the president said that major challenges still lie ahead on account of the geopolitical risks that are still large, coupled with the collapse of several financial institutions in the United States (US) and the world.
At the 42nd ASEAN Summit, Indonesia raised the theme of "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth," which means the ASEAN is relevant and important as a center for world growth.
Indonesia aims to strengthen the capacity and effectiveness of ASEAN institutions, so that they are able to respond to the challenges of the next 20 years.
In this chairmanship, Indonesia also prioritizes strengthening the health architecture and food security, including supply chain smoothness and trade facilitation.
Indonesia is also keen to strengthen energy security in supporting the energy transition towards clean and renewable energy (EBT).
These efforts encompass developing the electric vehicle ecosystem in the region as well as strengthening financial stability in dealing with external shocks.
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Translator: Muhammad Heriyanto, Katriana
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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