Sugiono delivered the remarks at the ASEAN-GCC ministerial meeting, which was held on the sidelines of the 46th ASEAN Summit series at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center on May 25, 2025.
"ASEAN and GCC are the two most dynamic regions in the Indo-Pacific. It is time for us to move toward concrete cooperation," the minister said, according to a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here on Thursday.
He emphasized that ASEAN-GCC cooperation should focus on the concrete implementation of the 2024–2028 Cooperation Framework, including through the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF) and the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Business Network platforms.
He also emphasized that the two regions complement each other in terms of economic potential, especially in the energy, food, investment, and innovation sectors.
Related news: Prabowo urges ASEAN-GCC halal business network formation
"Energy from the Gulf supports ASEAN's industrial growth. Meanwhile, ASEAN's food exports support food security in the Gulf region. We must push for the ASEAN-GCC FTA feasibility study process as a catalyst for closer economic integration," he said.
The minister also highlighted the importance of cooperation in protecting migrant workers through safe and responsible labor mobility, as well as maritime cooperation to ensure the stability of shipping lanes, encourage the development of the blue economy, and eradicate transnational crime.
Sugiono also expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Palestine and strongly condemned acts of violence by Israel in the enclave. He also reaffirmed Indonesia's support for the two-state solution to achieve just and sustainable peace.
"Israel must be held accountable for its atrocities. Indonesia will continue to speak out and move with partner countries to ensure justice in Palestine," he said.
The economic potential of ASEAN-GCC is reported to be significant, with their total gross domestic product (GDP) pegged at US$6 trillion, nearly six percent of global GDP, and their population of more than 734 million, the majority of whom are of productive age.
Related news: RI, Malaysia propose ASEAN-GCC collaboration for new economic power
Translator: Kuntum Khaira Riswan, Katriana
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
