Foreign Minister Sugiono Calls For Implementation Of ASEAN-Korean Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership

The 26th ASEAN Summit - Republic of Korea in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. (Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs RI)

JAKARTA - The Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs has called for the implementation of a regional comprehensive economic partnership between ASEAN and the Republic of Korea (South Korea) amid increasingly pressing and complex challenges, in order to achieve sustainable growth and create common welfare opportunities.

This was conveyed by Foreign Minister Sugiono while attending the 26th ASEAN Summit - the Republic of Korea in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Monday.

"We hope to advance the ASEAN-ROK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, facing pressing and increasingly complex challenges," said Foreign Minister Sugiono, launching a statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Monday, October 27.

In this dynamic landscape, continued the Indonesian Foreign Minister, it is important for ASEAN and ROK to work together to keep the economy open, connected, and inclusive.

"So that we can develop an environment that supports sustainable growth and creates real opportunities for mutual welfare," he said.

"To support this, existing mechanisms need to be strengthened. Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnerships need to be fully implemented. ASEAN-Korean Free Trade Areas need to be improved. And regional supply chains must be strengthened," said the Indonesian Foreign Minister.

Foreign Minister Sugiono further said ASEAN is on the right track to become one of the most dynamic digital markets in the world.

He revealed that the digital Gross Trade Value (Gross Merchandise Value) of the region is projected to reach one trillion US dollars by 2030.

"ASEAN offers a dynamic digital market and a technologically literate young population. In this partnership, the Republic of Korea contributes its strength to advanced technology and innovation." he explained.

"Together, we can take advantage of complementary forces to encourage progress in digital infrastructure, talent development, and AI governance, forming a sustainable and inclusive digital future," explained the Indonesian Foreign Minister.

The Foreign Minister added that the aspiration to make ASEAN develop as a vital mesi of global growth requires peace and stability. He then appreciated South Korea's commitment to upholding peace and security in the region and in the global landscape.

"Indonesia supports South Korea's efforts to become a partner for peace and security, to ease tensions, promote dialogue, and build constructive engagement because the partnership of the South Korean regions must be a force for good that brings peace and prosperity to all," concluded the Indonesian Foreign Minister.