ASEAN, Australia Have Responsibility to Maintain Indo-Pacific Peace

Jakarta – The Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) revealed that ASEAN and Australia have a responsibility to maintain the Indo-Pacific peace, stable, and a center of economic growth. 

"ASEAN highly appreciates Australia's support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, as well as Australia's active participation in the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum, especially the active role of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese," the Head of State said during the ASEAN-Australia Summit at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC), Senayan, Jakarta, on Thursday. 

According to the Head of State, Australia for ASEAN is not just a neighbor, but a strategic comprehensive partner and a link to the Pacific region.  

"On the other hand, ASEAN is also an important trading partner for Australia with a higher trade value than the United States and Japan. So, whatever happens in the Indo-Pacific will have a big impact on Australia and ASEAN," President Widodo explained. 

In addition, the President also expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Albanese. With the inclusive principle, this year ASEAN will establish cooperation with the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the Pacific Island Forum. 

"ASEAN is also committed to continue to establish mutually beneficial cooperation with Australia," the President concluded.