Indonesian President Joko Widodo believes that with the unity of all member countries, ASEAN would be able to face global challenges and dynamics.

Jakarta (Indonesia Window) – Indonesian President Joko Widodo recalled the goal of establishing ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations), namely creating a peaceful and prosperous region, while attending the commemoration of the 56th anniversary of the association at the ASEAN Secretariat Building in Jakarta on Tuesday.

“Today, 56 years ago ASEAN was established with the determination to make Southeast Asia a peaceful, stable and prosperous region. And today I want us to reaffirm that spirit and determination," President Widodo said.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo believes that with the unity of all the member countries, ASEAN would be able to face challenges and global dynamics which are currently very difficult amid the global economy which has not fully recovered while rivalries are getting sharper.

“ASEAN is an example of diversity that is harmonious, complementary and mutually encouraging. Differences between countries exist, but they are not an obstacle for us to realize ASEAN's determination and aspirations," he said.

The president also invited the leaders of ASEAN countries to jointly make ASEAN remain relevant and realize ASEAN as a center of growth. This is in line with Indonesia's chairmanship priority in ASEAN in 2023.

"ASEAN must be able to become the epicentrum of growth which provides more benefits for the people in the region and the world," he said.

According to the head of state, ASEAN has strong assets to become the center of this growth, including economic growth, demographic bonuses, and the world’s trust in ASEAN as a region with the best economic opportunities.

“We must use this positive momentum to make ASEAN the future of the world. Make ASEAN an anchor of peace, an anchor of stability, and an anchor of world prosperity," he added.

At the 43rd ASEAN Summit which will be held in September, President Widodo stated that as the chair, Indonesia wants to lay a strong foundation for ASEAN so that it is able to face challenges, be responsive to dynamics, and continue to play a central role.

Indonesia's chairmanship also encourages conflict resolution in Myanmar through the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus, he noted.

“We also have to realize that this situation can only be resolved if there is political will from all parties in Myanmar. ASEAN as a big ship must continue to move forward. This big ship must keep sailing. This big ship must not sink," he stated.

After giving his remarks, President Widodo cut the rice cone for ASEAN's 56th anniversary and gave it to ASEAN Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn and Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi.

Editing by Indonesia Window