Jokowi Highlights Two Priorities for ASEAN-Japan Economic Partnership
- Istimewa/Biro Pers Istana Kepresidenan
Japan – The Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) led the 4th agenda of the High-Level Conference (KTT) celebrating 50 years of ASEAN-Japan Friendly Relations and Cooperation in Tokyo on Sunday.
In the meeting, President Widodo outlined two priorities in the ASEAN-Japan economic partnership. One is related to strengthening food and energy security.
"In the food sector, ASEAN and Japan must strengthen collaboration to increase productivity and sustainability through developing technology for fertilizer availability and harmonizing agricultural commodity standards," the President said in a statement on Sunday.
Presiden Joko Widodo
- Istimewa/Biro Pers Istana Kepresidenan
Meanwhile, in the energy sector, the President remarked that Japan plays a significant role in helping ASEAN accelerate the energy transition.
"Including the establishment of the Asia Zero Emission Center which was announced by Prime Minister (PM) Fumio Kishida," President Widodo added.
The second priority is related to accelerating digital transformation. Based on data, the potential for ASEAN's digital economy is huge, namely, it's estimated to reach US$ 1 trillion by 2030 and will accumulate with the ASEAN Digital Economy (DEFA) launch to US$2 Trillion.
"So, the partnership with Japan for up-skilling and re-skilling Human resources and digital connectivity infrastructure must be a priority," the President informed.
In addition, President Jokowi also highlighted that the integration of MSMEs into the digital ecosystem is also very important to expand market access and strengthen the resilience of MSMEs.
"The ASEAN Japan Center could help facilitate this transformation," the President concluded.
