ASEAN–EU Partnership Grows More Strategic Amid Global Uncertainty

RRI.CO.ID, Bandar Seri Begawan – The partnership between ASEAN and the European Union is considered increasingly strategic amid growing global uncertainty. Indonesia's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Arrmanatha C. Nasir, conveyed this during the 25th ASEAN–EU Ministerial Meeting in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, Monday, April 28, 2026.

The meeting, co-chaired by the Second Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brunei Darussalam and the EU High Representative, discussed efforts to strengthen an equal and mutually beneficial strategic partnership between the two regions. Arrmanatha emphasized that ASEAN–EU cooperation must deliver tangible benefits for the public and business actors.

“The ASEAN–EU partnership is not merely symbolic. Its benefits must be felt directly by communities and businesses and be reliable for the market. Therefore, we need to push for the realization of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between ASEAN and the EU,” he said.

He also expressed hope that the European Union could play a constructive role amid current geopolitical and geoeconomic dynamics, including by working with ASEAN and countries in the Global South to maintain an open, fair, and stable international system.

In addition, Arrmanatha highlighted the importance of reforming the multilateral system and encouraged collaboration between the two regions to create global governance that is more inclusive, effective, and responsive to current realities.

On the sidelines of the meeting, he held courtesy calls with the Foreign Minister of Brunei Darussalam and the EU High Representative, as well as bilateral meetings with several countries, including Austria, Poland, Portugal, and Germany. The meeting was attended by foreign ministers and deputy foreign ministers from ASEAN and EU member states, who also underscored the importance of multilateralism and respect for international law.

Key areas of cooperation identified include energy, food security, connectivity, digital transformation, maritime affairs, and trade. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a Joint Statement by ASEAN and EU foreign ministers. ASEAN–EU relations have been established since 1977 and will mark their 50th anniversary in 2027, carrying significant strategic potential to shape a more stable, inclusive, and sustainable global order.