Indonesian FM calls for ASEAN unity to tackle geopolitical dynamics

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has called on member states to uphold ASEAN centrality and unity, particularly to address current geopolitical dynamics. “Our regional cooperation must remain cohesive, outward-looking, and adaptive to ensure a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient future for all,” said Sugiono, representing President Prabowo Subianto at the ASEAN Future Forum (AFF) organised by Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday. Speaking via a video statement, he also expressed hope for advancing the Indonesia–Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for the prosperity of both nations’ peoples. Citing the AFF’s official website, this year’s forum theme, “Shaping Our Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, People-Centered”, reflects ASEAN’s need to act with greater unity, imagination, and ambition amidst deep global uncertainty. The theme underscores the belief that ASEAN’s future must be shaped together—with peace as the foundation of regional stability, prosperity as the driver of sustainable development, and people at the centre of regional cooperation. In this spirit, AFF 2026 seeks to facilitate concrete, inclusive, and forward-looking dialogue on how ASEAN can strengthen resilience, renew growth models, and harness new technologies while ensuring the region’s future is shaped not only by governments but also by businesses, experts, communities, and future generations.