The minister delivered this statement during the ASEAN-China Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting/Post-Ministerial Conference (AMM/PMC) in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday.
“ASEAN-China relations are among the most dynamic and impactful in the region. We must ensure that this partnership is not only economically strong but also capable of addressing geopolitical challenges,” Sugiono said, as quoted in a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Sugiono highlighted that one of the key milestones expected this year is the signing of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA) 3.0 agreement, describing it as a critical step toward building a more open and integrated regional economy.
Indonesia also welcomed China’s proposed “ASEAN Visa” initiative, aimed at facilitating business travel for entrepreneurs from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. Sugiono also appreciated the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-China Summit held in May, describing it as a strategic step to advance regional economic progress.
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In addition to promoting ASEAN-China economic progress across key priority sectors, the minister also stressed the importance of the partnership in maintaining regional peace and stability.
“We must enhance law enforcement cooperation and develop joint responses to threats of transnational crime. We must also ensure our maritime areas remain zones of peace in accordance with established rules,” he emphasized.
Regarding regional maritime stability, Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to working closely with China and other ASEAN member states to conclude negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea by 2026.
China has been ASEAN’s largest trading partner for over 16 consecutive years since 2009. In return, over the past six years, ASEAN has also become China’s largest trading partner.
The ASEAN-China Post-Ministerial Conference, part of ASEAN’s regular dialogue partnership, is held annually. This year, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was also present.
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Reporter: Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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