Indonesian President Urges World Leaders to Relinquish Confrontation at ASEAN-UN Summit
In a powerful plea made at the ASEAN-UN Summit, Indonesian President Joko Widodo called upon world leaders to step back from confrontation and work towards fostering unity and cooperation. The summit, which saw tensions running high, covered various pressing issues including trade, technology, China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea, the Myanmar junta’s refusal to cooperate, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and North Korea’s alleged weapon supply plans.
Widodo emphasized the urgent need for major powers to avoid “destructive” rivalries that could further escalate tensions. Specifically, he voiced concerns over the mounting tensions between the United States and China, stressing that the Southeast Asian nations were greatly wary of being caught in the crossfire of a new Cold War.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang echoed Widodo’s sentiments, warning against a potential return to a Cold War era and urged countries to refrain from picking sides in any conflict. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering commitment to Southeast Asia and expressed opposition to any unilateral changes in the South China Sea.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol also chimed in, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the status quo in the South China Sea and condemning any forceful attempts to alter it. The discussions on the South China Sea issue highlighted the region’s concern over China’s territorial claims and aggressive behavior in the disputed waters.
Another focal point of the summit was the protracted conflict in Myanmar, with ASEAN leaders calling for an end to hostilities. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres drew attention to the deteriorating political, humanitarian, and human rights situation in Myanmar, and urged the release of political prisoners.
As tensions continue to simmer on multiple fronts, the calls for unity, cooperation, and de-escalation made by world leaders at the ASEAN-UN Summit carry significant weight. Both the Southeast Asian nations and the international community hope that these pleas will resonate with key players and pave the way for a more collaborative and peaceful future.
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