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ASEAN's Future at the Crossroads: Leaders Push for Stronger Regional Integration Amid Global Challenges

  Editorial INTI     1 bulan yang lalu
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Jakarta, INTI - The 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits commenced in Vientiane, Laos, on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, as Laos takes the helm of ASEAN during a time of regional and global transformation. Hosted at the National Convention Centre, the summits bring together the heads of state from all ASEAN member countries, a non-political representative from Myanmar, the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, ASEAN dialogue partners, and the Secretary-General of ASEAN.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto attended alongside Indonesia’s Vice President, accompanied by the Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, and the Foreign Minister, demonstrating Indonesia's commitment to shaping the future of ASEAN.

Opening remarks were delivered by Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, who underscored the importance of strengthening ASEAN's connectivity and resilience. He pointed out that the year 2024 is a turning point as ASEAN celebrates the tenth anniversary of the ASEAN 2025 Vision, a framework that has guided the region's development over the past decade. As ASEAN drafts its Vision 2045, the focus is on addressing new challenges while seizing opportunities in the global landscape.

The formal inauguration of the summits was conducted by Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith, who called for unity and collective action to address the pressing issues facing the region. According to President Thongloun, ASEAN’s strength lies in its diversity, encompassing nearly 700 million people from different cultures and backgrounds. He stressed that ASEAN must continue to promote peace, stability, and economic growth while adapting to the complexities of the global environment.

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the ASEAN Prize, an annual award recognizing individuals and organizations for their contributions to the ASEAN Community. The 7th ASEAN Prize was awarded to Senjaya Mulia, Chairman of the ASEAN Youth Organization (AYO), for his role in fostering cross-cultural understanding and strengthening ASEAN identity among the younger generation.

With Timor-Leste officially joining ASEAN, discussions at the summit are expected to focus on the country’s integration into the regional bloc. President Thongloun expressed optimism that Timor-Leste’s membership would further unify Southeast Asia and bring new opportunities for cooperation across various sectors. This development also reflects ASEAN’s broader vision of inclusivity and regional cohesion.

Over the next three days, leaders will engage in a series of high-level discussions on regional issues, including economic cooperation, security concerns, and climate resilience. In addition to the ASEAN Summits, the Indonesian Vice President will attend the ASEAN-Indo Pacific Forum (AIPF) 2024, a platform aimed at fostering economic collaboration across the Indo-Pacific region. The forum, first launched during Indonesia's ASEAN Chairmanship in 2023, has become a key event in ASEAN's economic agenda.

On the sidelines of the summits, Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with ministers from ASEAN countries and international leaders to discuss strategic partnerships and regional cooperation.

The 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, alongside related forums, will continue until October 11, 2024, culminating in a joint declaration outlining the region's path forward. The focus will be on maintaining ASEAN’s relevance in a fast-changing world, fostering economic resilience, and promoting peace and stability in Southeast Asia.

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