"Our focus is upskilling programs, skills' retraining, and new skills' training for young people. This is not only for young people but also for regional development that must be a collective action," Ariotedjo noted in his speech.
The A+YS, being held on September 6-8, is part of Indonesia's Chairmanship in 2023 that carries the theme of "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth."
The 2023 A+YS is focusing on digital literacy and inclusion, food security, the green economy, the future of education and work, and health
The opening was carried out by Minister Ariotedjo and Chair of Indonesia Youth Diplomacy (IYD), Michael Victor Sianipar, Co-Chair of the 2023 ASEAN Youth Agenda (AYA) Rorian Pratyaksa, and other AYA representatives.
The minister is optimistic that ASEAN countries would be able to surpass the success achieved by the United States and China if they were to design and realize a master plan and establish cooperation between countries.
"The future is something to be created, not to predict. However, I am very optimistic that in the next 5-10 years, 11 ASEAN countries will be able to surpass the success of the US and China," he affirmed.
He is upbeat that young people would network in the 2023 A+YS that would in turn be immensely useful in the future.
"I hope that through this forum, young people have the opportunity to make relations with other ASEAN countries. I am sure that the participants are young leaders from 11 ASEAN countries and this will be a social investment for the future," he remarked.
AYA Co-Chair Rorian Pratyaksa encouraged youth participation to support initiatives in the ASEAN Youth Agenda 2023.
"This is a key momentum for Indonesian and ASEAN youth to unite, collaborate, and play a role in shaping a sustainable future for the region," he stated.
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Translator: Fajar S, Kenzu
Editor: Sri Haryati
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
