Prabowo: ASEAN Must Speak with One Voice to Uphold International Law

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto stated that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) must speak with one voice in conveying its collective stance on global geopolitical dynamics, including in demonstrating its position and support for upholding international law.

According to Prabowo, ASEAN’s collective stance not only sends a strong message regarding ASEAN’s position, especially in responding to violations of international law committed by other countries, but also protects citizens from each member state, who are currently spread across conflict zones.

“In protecting our civilians, ASEAN must speak with one voice. We must demand that all parties uphold international law and advance accountability for violations. This is the time for ASEAN to demonstrate its influence. We must have a strong collective political voice,” said President Prabowo during the plenary session of the 48th ASEAN Summit at the Mactan Expo in Cebu, Philippines, on Friday, as quoted from the official broadcast of the Presidential Secretariat confirmed in Jakarta.

“I think we must have a unified ASEAN approach. Indonesia is willing to work closely with our ASEAN counterparts. The protection of our citizens must remain the top priority,” said President Prabowo in front of the leaders of ASEAN member states.

On the same occasion, President Prabowo also praised the spirit of solidarity shown by several ASEAN countries, particularly Singapore. “I welcome, for example, Singapore’s offer to also work with other countries if we need to evacuate our citizens,” said President Prabowo.

“We have lost Indonesian soldiers serving with the United Nations (UN), and we demand accountability that peacekeeping missions must be respected by all parties,” said President Prabowo.