Hopes for ASEAN<\/p>\n
From Bisnis Indonesia<\/p>\n
ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) celebrated its
\n27th anniversary on Aug. 8. Twenty-seven is surely a mature age
\nfor ASEAN. It should be admitted that ASEAN is a solid and
\ncompact grouping, one relatively without friction. We hail its
\naccomplishments.<\/p>\n
However, the world's political and economic maps have changed.
\nThe end of the Cold War has caused the West to turn away from its
\nallies and focus its attention on internal or regional affairs.
\nThis will force the West to be responsible for its own security
\nand defense.<\/p>\n
What about ASEAN in the wake of the global changes? They
\nshould naturally work for greater consolidation, strengthen their
\nsenses of togetherness, openness and mutual confidence, as well
\nas adopt flexible attitudes.<\/p>\n
Unfortunately, the latest developments show that ASEAN is
\nincreasingly vulnerable, both politically and economically. Look
\nat the way Jakarta dealt with the East Timor discussion held in
\nManila. Keep a close watch also on the tripartite agreements on
\neconomic growth. Why not five-partite?<\/p>\n
H. LOEBIS<\/p>\n
Bogor, West Java<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/hopes-for-asean-1447899208", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }