Foreign Minister Sugiono Stresses Importance of ASEAN-Canada Partnership Amid Global Uncertainty
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has stressed the importance of strengthening the strategic partnership between ASEAN and Canada to face mounting global uncertainty. He conveyed this message at the ASEAN-Canada Post Ministerial Conference (PMC) held in Manila, the Philippines.
Minister Sugiono stated that collaboration between the two sides must deliver tangible contributions towards creating a resilient, prosperous and peaceful region. “The partnership between ASEAN and Canada must be part of the solution to building a more resilient, prosperous and peaceful region,” he asserted.
On the economic front, Indonesia is pushing for the conclusion of the ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement (ACAFTA) negotiations this year.
Indonesia highlighted Canada’s strategic role as the world’s largest producer and exporter of potash. The commodity is crucial for fertiliser supplies needed to boost agricultural productivity in Southeast Asia. In this regard, Indonesia encouraged the optimisation of the Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office (IPAAO) that Canada has established in the region.
Regarding energy resilience, Sugiono welcomed plans to hold the Inaugural ASEAN-Canada Strategic Dialogue on energy security, scheduled for June 2026. The forum is expected to lay the foundation for deepening energy sector cooperation in the future.
On the political front, Indonesia invited Canada to strengthen the Youth, Peace and Security agenda through the ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (AIPR). Foreign Minister Sugiono also underscored the importance of a multilateral approach as the primary foundation for building trust between nations and seeking peaceful solutions to global conflicts, including the Palestinian issue.
ASEAN-Canada relations, established in 1977, will reach their golden jubilee of 50 years in 2027. As a roadmap for the future, both sides have adopted the ASEAN-Canada Plan of Action 2026-2030, encompassing cross-sector collaboration to further strengthen the strategic partnership.