Indonesia and Spain Seek to Bolster Ties Amid Global Instability
Southeast Asia Forum Gains Support
In Jakarta, the Regional Representative Council (DPD) convened with Spanish Senate members, seeking backing for the ASEAN Senate Forum’s establishment. This initiative aims to fortify ties among Southeast Asian representative bodies, especially as international challenges mount.
During their meeting on Friday, the DPD requested Spain’s assistance in rallying European support for this endeavor. Yorrys Raweyai, the DPD Deputy Speaker, highlighted this after the discussions with Javier Maroto Aranzabal, the First Vice President of the Spanish Senate.
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“We have asked them to encourage Spain to help garner support from other European countries for this initiative,”
—Yorrys Raweyai, DPD Deputy Speaker
The ASEAN Senate Forum, involving Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Thailand, is slated to launch on August 5th. A recent report indicates that global trade is experiencing significant disruption due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts, with investment confidence waning (World Trade Organization, 2024).
Broader Cooperation Discussed
Besides the proposed forum, delegations explored potential cooperation between Indonesia and Spain across various sectors, including culture, economy, and tourism. Raweyai also noted the long-standing partnership between the two nations, exchanging insights and experiences.
Raweyai emphasized the importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations, especially with Spain, to enhance national resilience against global challenges. He highlighted the ongoing struggles to resolve regional conflicts, which negatively impact investment and trade.
He observed the global order is tested by the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine wars, and rising tensions between Israel and Iran further exacerbate matters. Major powers and the United Nations are still working to offer effective solutions.
Raweyai stressed the need to broaden cooperation with Spain, covering areas like business, investment, trade, and cultural exchange. He suggested sister province partnerships between Spanish and Indonesian provinces could significantly boost bilateral ties.
