President Jokowi Said Whatever Happens in the Indo-Pacific Will Have an Impact on Australia and ASEAN

JAKARTA - President Joko Widodo appreciated Australia's support for ASEAN, reminding him of the importance of the Indo-Pacific region for both parties, when opening the 3rd ASEAN-Australia Summit with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday.

President Jokowi said, for ASEAN, Australia is not just a neighbor but a comprehensive strategic partner and also a liaison with the Pacific region.

On the other hand, ASEAN is also an important trading partner for Australia, with higher trade value compared to the United States and Japan.

"So whatever happens in the Indo-Pacific will have a big impact on Australia and ASEAN," President Jokowi said in Jakarta, September 7.

Therefore, continued President Jokowi, ASEAN and Australia both have an interest, they both have a responsibility to keep the Indo-Pacific peaceful and stable, making it the epicenter of growth.

In addition, ASEAN really appreciates Australia's support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), as well as Australia's active participation in the ASEAN Indo-Pacific Forum, especially the active role of PM Albanese.

"Thank you, Prime Minister Albanese," said President Jokowi.

"And with the principle of inclusiveness, this year the ASEAN Secretariat will cooperate with the Secretariat of the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the Pacific Island Forum," said the President.

President Jokowi added that ASEAN is also committed to continuing to establish mutually beneficial cooperation with Australia.