ASEAN–EU Partnership Seen as Strategic Amid Global Uncertainty

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia has called for stronger cooperation between ASEAN and the European Union, stressing the importance of turning the partnership into tangible benefits for people and businesses across both regions.

Speaking at the 25th ASEAN–EU Ministerial Meeting in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, on Tuesday, April 29, 2026, Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister Arrmanatha C. Nasir said the partnership must go beyond symbolism.

“The ASEAN–EU partnership is not just a symbol. Its benefits must be felt directly by society and businesses, and it must be trusted by markets,” he noted in a press statement on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Arrmanatha urged both sides to push forward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which he sees as crucial for deepening economic ties. He also emphasized the need for the EU to play a constructive role amid shifting geopolitical and geo-economic dynamics.

“We must strengthen cooperation between ASEAN, the EU, and the Global South to maintain an international system that is open, fair, and stable,” he said, highlighting the importance of reforming multilateral institutions to ensure more inclusive and responsive global governance.

The meeting, co-chaired by Brunei’s Second Foreign Minister and the EU’s High Representative, focused on building a balanced and mutually beneficial strategic partnership. It also served as a platform to exchange views on regional and global issues.

Arrmanatha held bilateral talks with counterparts from Austria, Poland, Portugal, and Germany, while also meeting Brunei’s Foreign Minister and the EU’s High Representative.

The discussions underscored shared priorities in energy, food security, connectivity, digital transformation, maritime cooperation, and trade. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism and respect for international law.

The ASEAN–EU partnership, established in 1977, will mark its 50th anniversary in 2027. Officials believe it holds significant potential to shape a more stable, inclusive, and sustainable global order.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of a joint statement by ASEAN and EU foreign ministers, signaling renewed momentum in the relationship. ***