VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

VOInews, Jakarta: ASEAN expects Japan's contribution to infrastructure development to increase. According to President Joko Widodo, Japan, as one of ASEAN's most active partners and a key supporter of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, can be a major contributor in realizing concrete cooperation that directly benefits the people.

"Currently, ASEAN needs infrastructure investment worth USD184 billion per year. ASEAN hopes that Japan can continue to increase its contribution to the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund and the ASEAN Catalytic Green Finance Facility to support connectivity and green infrastructure," he said at the opening of the 26th ASEAN-Japan Summit, in Jakarta, Wednesday (6/9/2023).

President Joko Widodo said ASEAN and Japan have agreed to form a mutually beneficial Strategic Comprehensive Partnership.

"ASEAN and Japan have agreed to form a Strategic Comprehensive Partnership that is not just ceremonial and not just lip service, but instead takes the form of concrete cooperation that is mutually beneficial," he said.

Furthermore, President Joko Widodo said, geographically, Japan and ASEAN are part of Asia. Therefore, he said, ASEAN and Japan have a great responsibility to maintain a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region. (VOI/Andy)