ASIATODAY.ID, VIENTIANE – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Retno Marsudi raised the urgency of strengthening multilateralism to ensure global peace and stability at the 12th ASEAN-United States Summit which took place on 11 October 2024 in Vientiane, Laos.
Retno Marsudi was present to represent the Indonesian Government at the ASEAN-US Summit, while the US was represented by Foreign Minister Antony Blinken.
In her speech, Retno highlighted the attack carried out by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on the UN Peacekeeping Force UNIFIL in South Lebanon on 10 October 2024.
“Intentional attacks on peacekeepers are a serious violation of international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701. We cannot remain silent when the international symbol of peace, namely the blue helmet, is under direct attack,” stressed Retno, quoted from the MOFA Indonesia broadcast.
Furthermore, Retno expressed hope that the US, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, would act decisively to ensure that UNIFIL could continue to carry out its vital duties in South Lebanon.
“Continuing violations of international law without meaningful consequences are a serious problem, undermining the credibility of the UN Security Council,” he added.
In the context of the ASEAN-US partnership, Retno raised three main priorities for the ASEAN-US partnership in the future;
First, contribution to peace and stability. Indonesia hopes for US support for AOIP to maintain ASEAN centrality and respect the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC), in order to realize an inclusive regional architecture.
Second, development of green energy. As one of the centers of global growth, ASEAN needs US support in developing the electric vehicle ecosystem and achieving emission reduction targets.
Third, development of the digital economy. Retno hopes for ASEAN-US cooperation in minimizing the risk of misuse of artificial intelligence (AI), including in cyber crime and disinformation, to ensure its safe and responsible use.
Closing her speech, Retno expressed Indonesia’s hope that the United States would continue to push for peace for the Palestinian people.
“As a global power, the United States must be on the right side by rejecting impunity, protecting civilians, and pushing for a comprehensive two-state solution,” he concluded. (AT Network)
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