Speaking at the plenary session in Vientiane, Laos, on Wednesday, Amin said he regarded the AOIP as a strategic guideline for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region that is expected to help ASEAN solidify its centrality.
He then drew attention to the establishment of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) as the second achievement while spotlighting that the partnership constitutes the world's largest free trade agreement.
The vice president underscored that the RCEP covers nearly 30 percent of global trade, encompassing one-third of the world's population.
He then touched upon the progressive accession of Timor-Leste to ASEAN while expressing belief that by accepting the country, the ASEAN would be able to strengthen regional solidarity and amplify its identity as an inclusive organization.
Related news: Maintaining stability important for ASEAN's future: VP Amin
Timor-Leste was accepted in principle as ASEAN’s 11th member during a summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in November 2022. The road map for its full membership was agreed upon at the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia, in May 2023.
"Indonesia is grateful for having played a crucial role in ASEAN's transformation," he stated.
Furthermore, the VP alluded to the need for ASEAN countries to continue to adapt and work side by side to prepare for the challenges ahead.
For its ASEAN chairmanship this year, Laos has adopted the "Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience" theme, highlighting the need to drive ASEAN to work collectively towards strengthening the ASEAN Community to seize opportunities and address challenges effectively.
In Laos, VP Amin leads the Indonesian delegation that includes Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Hadi Tjahjanto; Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto; and Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi.
Related news: RI FM spotlights greater solidarity, integration between ASEAN nations
Translator: Mentari D, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
Copyright © ANTARA 2024
