Jakarta (TDI): Regional experts and diplomats have called for stronger ASEAN–China cooperation to address rising global uncertainties, warning that external shocks such as geopolitical conflicts, climate change and protectionism are putting pressure on regional stability and supply chains.
The call came at a forum held in Jakarta marking the fifth anniversary of the ASEAN–China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, where speakers highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration in trade, energy security and sustainable development.
The event was jointly organized by China’s Mission to ASEAN and Malaysia’s Permanent Mission to ASEAN, and included the launch of a joint report by the China Foreign Affairs University and Indonesia’s Centre for Strategic and International Studies.
Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN Wang Qing said China and ASEAN, as “close neighbours with a shared future”, must continue working together to promote stability and economic growth in the region. He emphasized that Beijing supports an ASEAN-centred regional cooperation framework and called for stronger efforts to ensure openness, cooperation and resilience in supply chains.
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He also stressed the need to safeguard regional food and energy security and to oppose external interference and renewed militarism, arguing that deeper integration would help strengthen long-term stability.
Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to ASEAN, Sarah Al Bakri Devadason, echoed the importance of dialogue and mutual respect as the foundation of ASEAN–China relations, saying these principles would continue to guide future cooperation.
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn described the partnership as “not merely desirable, but necessary” in the face of growing global challenges. He said recent crises, including tensions in the Middle East, have exposed vulnerabilities in global energy and food systems.
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Kao said ASEAN and China should deepen cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, food security and green financing, arguing that stronger ties could contribute not only to regional prosperity but also to global stability.
