Indonesia is advocating for the revitalization of the ASEAN Regional forum (ARF), emphasizing the need for practical cooperation beyond mere dialog as the region navigates complex geopolitical challenges. The call comes as the ARF, the sole security forum hosted by a bloc in a tense region, faces pressure to demonstrate its relevance and capacity to address contemporary issues.
Foreign Minister Sugiono, speaking at the ARF meeting in Kuala Lumpur, stressed that the forum, which includes 27 key nations such as the United states, China, and Russia, must be equipped to respond effectively to current global dynamics.The meeting, hosted by Malaysia as the bloc’s chair, convened high-level representatives from all 10 ASEAN member states and their international partners, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Russia’s top diplomat Sergei Lavrov.
this significant gathering took place against a backdrop of escalating global tensions, including Washington’s trade tariff policies, Russia’s ongoing military actions in Ukraine, and China’s expanding presence in the South China Sea. minister Sugiono, representing Indonesia, also pointed to a range of non-military security concerns impacting Southeast Asia, such as economic instability, the escalating effects of climate change, and the growing threat of cyberattacks.
“Mere dialogue will prove insufficient,” Sugiono stated, advocating for a shift towards tangible collaborative efforts. He proposed concrete measures like joint exercises, training programs, and the establishment of early-warning systems to bolster the ARF’s capacity for preventive diplomacy, aligning with its foundational objectives.
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