Jakarta (ANTARA) - Foreign Minister Sugiono has emphasized the importance of joint efforts by ASEAN member states to address global geopolitical and geoeconomic dynamics, which are becoming increasingly complex.

He made the statement during the plenary session of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Wednesday.

“We are currently at a crucial crossroads. Heightening geopolitical rivalries and the growing trend of global protectionism risk (are) undermining regional unity and relevance. Geopolitical and geoeconomic affairs can no longer be separated,” he said, as per a ministry statement received here the same day.

“If ASEAN wishes to remain relevant, it must be able to confront these challenges,” he added.

Citing the 2024 UNCTAD report, the minister highlighted the global decline in investment across several strategic sectors. However, he noted that ASEAN remains a “bright spot” with foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows increasing by 10 percent.

“This reflects growing investor confidence. ASEAN must continue to serve as an anchor of stability and a magnet for sustainable investment,” he said.

Indonesia also expressed full support for the ASEAN geoeconomics task force, which is drafting strategic policy options for discussion at the leaders’ level.

“We must realize our vision into concrete actions that reinforce ASEAN centrality and help build a stable regional architecture,” Sugiono said, emphasizing the need to prioritize the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

In his address, he also reiterated Indonesia’s strong support for Timor-Leste’s full ASEAN membership.

“The decision has been made at the leaders’ level. Now is the time for us to realize it,” he affirmed.

Indonesia has implemented several capacity-building programs to support Timor-Leste’s bid for full membership of the bloc.

The minister also highlighted President Prabowo Subianto’s proposal to enhance partnership with Papua New Guinea (PNG) at the 46th ASEAN Summit.

“As an ASEAN observer since 1976, PNG has close strategic and cultural ties with the region,” Sugiono said.





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Translator: Katriana, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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