In his opening speech, Jokowi described ASEAN as an "ark" that is responsible for the well-being of its population of hundreds of millions.
Hence, he urged all ASEAN leaders to ensure that the ark is capable of persistently navigating the oceans amid emerging "storms" or challenges.
Speaking on the same lines as Jokowi, Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi called on the unity and cooperation of the bloc in navigating any challenges, including in resolving the Myanmar issue.
"ASEAN can only steam forward in full power if we can ensure a peaceful and lasting solution in Myanmar," she stated at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) on Monday (September 4).
Apart from the firm solidity of ASEAN, Jokowi also highlighted the principle of equality that is respected in the region.
He pointed out that equality has become a "rare thing" in the world, considering the several injustices and conflicts that continue to occur due to the absence of equality.
"However, in ASEAN, things are different. Equality is, in fact, the primary value that we respect and uphold together in the framework of unity and togetherness, so that the big ship of ASEAN can continue to sail," he affirmed.
He said the ASEAN that is unified will be able to become a major actor in realizing global peace and growth.
At the same time, as the chair of ASEAN 2023, Indonesia seeks to strengthen the institutional capacity and effectiveness of ASEAN, so the region will be able to respond to the challenges in the next 20 years.
Related news: Indonesia continues to promote economic cooperation in Indo-Pacific
Editor: Anton Santoso
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
