He noted that ASEAN's collective stance sends a strong message against violations of international law and also safeguards citizens of member countries in conflict-affected regions.
"In safeguarding our civilians, ASEAN must speak with one voice. We must demand all parties to uphold international law and advance accountability for violations. This is the moment for ASEAN to show its weight. We must have a strong collective political voice," he spoke at the plenary session of the 48th ASEAN Summit at Mactan Expo, Cebu, Philippines, on Friday.
He then proposed the need for close cooperation and coordination among ASEAN member countries to strengthen the protection and handling of citizens in emergency situations, such as the evacuation of citizens from countries involved in war.
"I think we should have a common ASEAN approach. Indonesia is willing to work very closely with our colleagues from ASEAN. The protection of our nationals must remain a top priority," he continued.
During the occasion, Prabowo also praised the spirit of solidarity shown by several ASEAN countries, particularly Singapore.
"I welcome the example of Singapore that offers to also work together with our other countries in the event that we have to evacuate our citizens," he remarked.
Before the ASEAN leaders, Prabowo also highlighted the violation of international law committed by the Israeli military against UN peacekeepers in Lebanon.
Prabowo emphasized that the safety of peacekeepers must be guaranteed and respected by all parties, including those involved in the conflict.
"We have lost Indonesian soldiers serving with the United Nations and we demand accountability that the duties of peacekeeping must be respected by all parties," he pointed out.
In the plenary session of the 48th ASEAN Summit, Prabowo was accompanied by several state officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia, and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya.
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Translator: Genta Tenri M, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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