Foreign Minister Sugiono Calls For Strengthening ASEAN-India Maritime Connectivity

Foreign Minister Sugiono while attending the ASEAN-India Summit. (Source: Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

JAKARTA - Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono called for strengthening maritime connectivity between ASEAN and Indonesia, highlighting the role of the sea which is the bridge between the two parties.

Speaking at the 22nd ASEAN-India summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Sunday, Foreign Minister Sugiono said partnerships between the two sides were built on history, connectivity and efforts to achieve prosperity.

"For centuries, our oceans have brought ships, spices, and stories, which connect our territory and society. As we look back and forward, let's strengthen the bonds that connect us again," said Foreign Minister Sugiono, launching a statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Monday 27 October.

"The sea has always been our bridge. These waters have transported ships loaded with spices and stories; now, the sea should bring collaboration, innovation, and prosperity together," continued Foreign Minister Sugiono.

Ahead of the 2026 ASEAN-India Maritime Cooperation Year, the Indonesian Foreign Minister invited to restore the sea as the heart of the ASEAN-India partnership.

"Strengthening maritime connectivity will increase trade and investment, encourage cultural exchange, and uphold peace and stability in our joint waters," said Foreign Minister Sugiono.

"Make our sea our corridor of peace and progress," he said.

Furthermore, on this occasion, Foreign Minister Sugiono said tourism was one of the strongest currents to encourage our partnership. He said Indonesia welcomed the adoption of the Joint Statement of ASEAN Leaders ofIndia on Sustainable Tourism.

"Tourism encourages development, creates jobs, and empowers communities throughout our region," he said.

"However, the large value lies in his ability to preserve our greatest assets: nature, culture, and shared heritage," continued the Indonesian Foreign Minister.

"For ASEAN and India, home to nearly two billion people, sustainable tourism offers a way to balance welfare with conservation. Therefore, let us work together to advance tourism that is not only better but also more sustainable, for the benefit of our future generation," he added.

The Foreign Minister added that ASEAN-India's cooperation in food security is equally important, because the foundation of prosperity is the welfare of the people.

"Indonesia believes that by advancing sustainable tourism, maritime cooperation, and food security, we can make ASEAN's Comprehensive Strategic Partnership "India more relevant and has an impact on our people," concluded the Indonesian Foreign Minister.