The 42nd ASEAN Summit held in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on May 9-11, 2023, has concluded with three main agreements, this was stated by Indonesian President Joko Widodo. First, ASEAN leaders give full attention relating to the interests of the people, including the protection of migrant workers and victims of human trafficking.
“Matters that touch the interests of the people are an important concern of the leaders, including the protection of migrant workers and victims of human trafficking. I invite ASEAN countries to take firm action against the main perpetrators,” the President explained in the press conference at Meruorah Hotel, Labuan Bajo, on Thursday. Second, the leaders paid attention to the settlement of the Myanmar conflict. President Jokowi emphasized that the violation of human values cannot be tolerated. He also reminded ASEAN to involve all stakeholders following the Five-Point Consensus. “Inclusiveness must be strongly held by ASEAN because ASEAN’s credibility is at stake,” he said.
The President said that Indonesia is ready to talk to anyone, including the military junta and all stakeholders in Myanmar for the benefit of humanity in the country. However, President Widodo also said that engagement does not mean recognition.
“I emphasize that engagement is not recognition, approaching does not mean giving recognition,” he remarked. Furthermore, the Head of State also emphasized the importance of ASEAN unity that it is not easy to be divided by other parties. The President also believes that none of the ASEAN leaders want disunity.
“No party inside or outside ASEAN should take advantage of the internal conflict in Myanmar. Violence must stop and the people must be protected,”
The third conclusion is on strengthening economic cooperation. The President said that ASEAN leaders agreed to build an electric car ecosystem and become an important part of the world supply chain. In this case, downstream is key. In addition, ASEAN leaders also agreed to strengthen the implementation of local currency transactions and digital payment connectivity between countries.
“This is in line with the goal of ASEAN centrality so that ASEAN will be stronger and more independent,” President Joko Widodo concluded.
Source: viva
