Japan’s prime minister joins ASEAN-Indo-Pacific Forum to strengthen regional co-operation

« The ASEAN-Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF) hosted by Indonesia, the current chair of ASEAN in 2023, welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Jakarta on Wednesday.
« ASEAN and Japan have reached a significant agreement to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership that goes beyond mere ceremony and empty words. Instead, it will be characterised by tangible cooperation that benefits both parties, » said President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo.
« Japan, as ASEAN’s most active partner and a strong advocate for the region, will play a pivotal role in fostering this concrete cooperation, ultimately improving the lives of our people, » he continued.
Widodo further stressed the shared geographical home of Japan and ASEAN within Asia and the collective responsibility to maintain a peaceful, stable, and prosperous environment in the region.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida echoed the commitment to ASEAN, emphasising the importance of ASEAN’s centrality and unity for future generations.
« Japan is dedicated to supporting the transition to clean energy under the umbrella of Asia’s Zero-Emission Community and advancing the Strategic Program for Asian Climate, which addresses climate change and environmental concerns. Additionally, we pledge our support for the establishment of an innovative and sustainable economy centre within the region, as well as another centre dedicated to public health emergencies and emerging diseases, » expressed Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
« Our commitment extends to various initiatives, including assistance in construction projects. Furthermore, we aim to strengthen cultural and intellectual exchanges while offering support for the teaching and learning of the Japanese language, » he added.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is concurrently conducting separate summit meetings with China, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Canada alongside the 43rd ASEAN Summit. »



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