New Delhi, 4 March 2023 (TDI): Today, the United States (US) Secretary of State met with the Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi to discuss a variety of global and regional issues.
During their meeting, both leaders debated over the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) centrality to peace and stability in the region, Russia’s war against Ukraine, and the steadfast US-Indonesia Strategic Partnership.
US-Indonesia Strategic Partnership
Ongoing issues such as maritime security, economic cooperation, peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, and the promotion of human rights were also brought to the fore.
The two officials vowed to continue working together to promote global progress. Also, the US Secretary reiterated his country’s commitment to cultivating strong partnerships with Indonesia.
In the same vein, they highlighted various initiatives both countries have taken part in, such as the US-Indonesia Comprehensive Partnership and the Global Peace and Justice Program.
Indonesian Minister Marsudi also praised the close ties between the two countries and spoke about the need for further collaboration to address global issues such as climate change, energy security, and countering terrorism.
They both affirmed their commitment to expanding mutual investment, supporting development, and increasing cooperation in the areas of maritime security, renewable energy, trade, science and technology, human rights, and rule of law.
US Secretary also noted that the US will continue its support for Indonesia’s economic and political reform agenda.
Discussion about ASEAN’s centrality to peace
During their meeting, US Secretary and Indonesian Minister agreed that ASEAN is an important factor in maintaining regional stability and security, as well as in fostering greater economic integration throughout the region.
Additionally, they both acknowledged the importance of “continued collaboration” in order to ensure that the region remains peaceful and prosperous.
The US Secretary and Indonesian Minister also discussed measures to ensure regional stability including US and Indonesian participation in ASEAN and other multinational forums.
US Secretary expressed his appreciation for Indonesia’s commitment to the “ASEAN-centered” security architecture, which he said is essential to preserving stability and preventing conflict throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
The US and Indonesia have been important partners in promoting the growth and development of ASEAN. US investments in Indonesia amount to $13.6 billion, while US exports to Indonesia totaled $9.5 billion in 2020.
The US-Indonesia Strategic Partnership was established in 2010, and the two countries cooperate on various issues since then.
US and Indonesia’s contributions to ASEAN
Indonesia has been an active participant in the ASEAN Summit, often pushing for regional initiatives to further economic integration and collaboration.
The country has also played a leading role in developing infrastructure projects, and advocating free trade and market reforms.
Additionally, Indonesia is also a key proponent of increasing connectivity in ASEAN and was instrumental in negotiations leading to the adoption of the ASEAN Economic Community Master Plan 2025.
Indonesia is actively working with the US on initiatives such as the ASEAN Cross-Border Payment Framework and the establishment of an ASEAN Blockchain Association.
The two countries also continue to cooperate closely through the US-ASEAN Summit and other forums aimed at increasing dialogue and promoting regional cooperation.
At the end of their meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the US-Indonesian Partnership and to strengthening ties and expanding cooperation.
This meeting between the US Secretary of State and the Indonesian Foreign Minister is indicative of the ever-strengthening bond between the United States and Indonesia as they work together to promote progress and prosperity throughout the region.
The strong relationship between the two nations serves as a model for successful collaboration and is an example of how two countries can work together to address global issues and promote mutual interests.
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