Hopes for ASEAN

Hopes for ASEAN

From Bisnis Indonesia

ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) celebrated its
27th anniversary on Aug. 8. Twenty-seven is surely a mature age
for ASEAN. It should be admitted that ASEAN is a solid and
compact grouping, one relatively without friction. We hail its
accomplishments.

However, the world's political and economic maps have changed.
The end of the Cold War has caused the West to turn away from its
allies and focus its attention on internal or regional affairs.
This will force the West to be responsible for its own security
and defense.

What about ASEAN in the wake of the global changes? They
should naturally work for greater consolidation, strengthen their
senses of togetherness, openness and mutual confidence, as well
as adopt flexible attitudes.

Unfortunately, the latest developments show that ASEAN is
increasingly vulnerable, both politically and economically. Look
at the way Jakarta dealt with the East Timor discussion held in
Manila. Keep a close watch also on the tripartite agreements on
economic growth. Why not five-partite?

H. LOEBIS

Bogor, West Java