In a powerful address at the 15th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono emphasized the crucial role of the East Asia Summit (EAS) in becoming a moral voice in responding to the increasingly complex global crisis. The meeting took place on November 7, bringing together Foreign Ministers from 18 EAS countries.
The strength of the EAS lies not only in its position as a strategic forum for regional leaders and partner countries but also in its courage to serve as an ethical compass in the region and the world, Minister Sugiono stressed. "When the world becomes increasingly polarized and open conflict is normalized, EAS must stand as the moral voice of the region, for the sake of humanity and global justice," he emphasized.
The minister specifically highlighted the humanitarian tragedy occurring in Palestine, including the Israeli attack that killed Dr. Marwan Al Sultan, the Director of the Indonesian Hospital in Gaza, and his family. "There is no justification, absolutely none, for targeting medical personnel and humanitarian facilities," Minister Sugiono said. "This is not about taking sides; it is about the courage to uphold universal values."
Indonesia underscores the importance of a peaceful resolution based on the Two-State Solution and commitment to universal principles such as humanity and justice. The country also emphasizes the need to uphold the UN Charter, UNCLOS 1982, as well as the principles of TAC, ZOPFAN, and the Bali Principles as the foundation for a just and peaceful regional order.
Furthermore, Minister Sugiono emphasized the importance of upholding maritime security, energy transition, and economic integration in line with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). Indonesia encourages strengthening concrete cooperation in these areas to promote peace, stability, and economic growth in the region.
The year 2025 marks two decades since the establishment of EAS as a high-level forum in the region. Minister Sugiono believes that this moment is not just a reflection but an invitation to reinforce our shared commitment to moral leadership. "We must strengthen mutual trust and continue to encourage cooperation," he concluded. "EAS must grow as a pillar of peace and prosperity for the Indo-Pacific."
The East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers Meeting was attended by Foreign Ministers from 18 EAS countries, including the US, Russia, China, Australia, Japan, South Korea, India, and New Zealand. This year's meeting serves as a strategic reflection for regional countries to continue advancing a fair and inclusive global order.
In conclusion, Minister Sugiono's powerful address highlights the critical role of the East Asia Summit in becoming a moral voice in global crises. By upholding universal values, promoting cooperation, and strengthening mutual trust, Indonesia and other EAS countries can work together to promote peace, stability, and economic growth in the Indo-Pacific region.