At the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in Vientiane, Laos, Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi emphasized the urgency of bolstering food security and maritime cooperation between ASEAN and India. Citing the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, global conflicts, and their impact on food security, Minister Marsudi stressed the need for collaborative action.
"We learn from our experience, especially during thepandemic, after the pandemic, and also due to the war, this food security issue is still a big challenge for all of us, for the world and also for the region," she stated.
Referencing the "Joint Leaders' Statement on Strengthening Food Security and Nutrition in Response to Crises" agreed upon last year, Minister Marsudi urged ASEAN and India to implement concrete measures to address food security concerns exacerbated by ongoing conflicts.
In the maritime domain, Minister Marsudi emphasized the shared goal of maintaining peace and stability in the region. "We all certainly want this maritime domain to be an arena for cooperation, and not an arena for confrontation," she affirmed.
To achieve this, Indonesia proposed the implementation of the "ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Maritime Cooperation," specifically focusing on developing the blue economy, enhancing maritime connectivity, and promoting sustainable maritime energy resources.
Furthermore, Minister Marsudi highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation between ASEAN and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). She suggested translating existing agreements into a concrete action plan and sought India's support in this endeavor, acknowledging its significant role within IORA.
Minister Marsudi also addressed the issue of Palestine during the meeting, calling for renewed support and commitment from all nations. She reiterated the need for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, ensuring unhindered humanitarian aid delivery, and recognizing Palestine's membership in the UN.
