ASEAN-US Dialogue Demonstrates US Commitment to Indo-Pacific: Official

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the United States (ASEAN-US) Dialogue in Jakarta has demonstrated the strong US commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, an official said on Wednesday, March 8.

"We're here to demonstrate the strength of America's commitment to the Indo-Pacific region," said US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel J. Kritenbrink after co-chairing the meeting.

Kritenbrink emphasized that his participation in the ASEAN-US Dialogue aimed to demonstrate the strength of the US’ commitment to a comprehensive strategic partnership with ASEAN as well as support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).

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In addition, he said he wanted to show the US commitment to a shared future together with ASEAN member countries.

ASEAN collectively represents the world's fourth-largest economy, Kritenbrink said.

"You are the youngest, most dynamic, most vital region in the world. We recognize that and recognize you," he said.

He then said the readiness of the US to partner with ASEAN. Kritenbrink said he was grateful that he had the opportunity to reiterate the strength of the US commitment to ASEAN.

He also emphasized US support for Indonesia's chairmanship of ASEAN this year.

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During the ASEAN-US Dialogue, Kritenbrink and representatives of ASEAN member countries discussed several common issues.

They talked about various things they would like to work on together in the future, including energy security, climate change, transnational crime, and maritime security.

In addition, issues related to women's empowerment, good governance, rule of law, education, and people-people relations were also covered by the discussion. 

Source: State News Antara