VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

VOI News : Indonesia expressed concern related to European Union policies that could block partnerships with ASEAN, including regarding palm oil and the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).  Minister of Foreign Affairs, Retno Marsudi at the 24th European Union ASEAN Ministerial Meeting conveyed that ASEAN and the European Union must be partners for prosperity. 

In a statement received in Jakarta on Saturday (3/2),  she conveyed all the data that shows the European Union is one of ASEAN's important partners and vice-versa, with the economic character of the two regions being different and complementive each other.

“I affirmed that ASEAN also cares about environmental sustainability and the approach taken must be mutually helpful, but not punishing.  I emphasized that the “one-size fits all” standard cannot be applied. If the goal is to strengthen cooperation, then the only choice is one, namely working together, helping each other, and avoiding sustainability issues being used as a means of protection in trade,” Minister Retno said.

Moreover, Minister Retno also pointed out the importance of ASEAN and the European Union to become partners for peace and stability. According to Minister Retno, the current world condition is full of conflict so that she emphasized the importance of consistently respecting international principles, values and laws.  

Minister Retno also expressed her appreciation for the European Union's support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) which reflects a shared commitment to maintaining stability and peace in the Indo-Pacific. (VOI-Ndy-Mar- AF)