Jokowi: ASEAN As A Big Ship Cannot Be Sink

President Joko Widodo while attending the celebration of ASEAN's 56th Anniversary at the ASEAN Secretariat, Jakarta, Tuesday (8/8/2023). (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Indonesian President Joko Widodo reminded all parties that the large ships of the United Nations throughout Southeast Asia or ASEAN must continue to sail and must not sink.

This was conveyed by the President in his remarks while attending the ASEAN Day Celebration 56th Anniversary at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta, Tuesday.

"ASEAN as a big ship must continue to move forward, this big ship must sail, this big ship must not sink, because this is our responsibility for the hundreds of lives and people who are in it", the President said as quoted by ANTARA, Tuesday, August 8.

Jokowi said ASEAN was an example of diversity, harmony, complementing and strengthening each other. The existing differences are not an obstacle to realizing ASEAN's determination and aspirations.

He again called on ASEAN with strong assets to be able to become the center of world growth or the epicenter of growth which provides more benefits for the people in the region and the world.

"Economic growth, demographic bonuses, and ASEAN's trust with the best economic opportunities. We must use this momentum to make ASEAN the future of the world, an anchor of peace, stability, and world prosperity", he explained.

The Head of State said that in September 2023, the 43rd ASEAN Summit would be held. As chairman, Indonesia wants to lay a strong foundation for ASEAN so that ASEAN is able to face dynamic challenges and responses and play a central role.

On the occasion of celebrating the 56th ASEAN Anniversary, the President also carried out a procession of cutting the tumpeng. The first piece of tumpeng was given to ASEAN Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn while the second piece was given to Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.