Indonesia Encourages Non-Aligned Movement to Become Voice of Developing World

Indonesia is optimistic that the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) can continue to be the positive force amid rising geopolitical tenions.

IDXChannel - Indonesia is optimistic that the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) can continue to be the positive force amid rising geopolitical tenions and global economic fragmentations.

"As the first President of Indonesia, Soekarno said, at the opening of the Bandung Conference, We can do much, we can inject the voice of reason into world affairs," stated Indonesian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Pahala Nugraha Mansury during the 19th NAM Summit in Uganda on 19-20 January.

With 121 countries, combined population of 55% of the world, over 60% of voting power in the United Nations (UN), and currently, 5 Non-Permanent Members of the Security Council, NAM holds vast convening power. 

"For example, in advocating for reform of multilateral institutions, to make them more effective in responding to global challenges. We must push for more representation of developing countries, to ensure that our voices are heard in setting various global agenda. Also, in advocating our right to development.Amidst the current inequality crisis and a race for transition towards sustainability, we must ensure a win-win outcome for the developing countries," he explained.

"To be able to pursue their own development path and make a leap towards prosperity. To be important part of global supply chain. To benefit from its natural resources through industrial downstreaming. To be free from trade discrimination, and trade wars that will only make us victims. To develop our economy, without falling into debt trap. And to access innovative financing, to achieve the SDGs and combat climate change," he added.

At the same time, he continued, NAM must also show our leadership in becoming part of the global solution. 

"I am proud that NAM member countries have contributed towards many global issues. We must continue to take the lead, including through advancing South-South Cooperation and mainstreaming the Global South’s agenda in the Pact of the Future," he said.

"Rest assured that Indonesia will continue to lend its full support to NAM’s collective actions," he concluded. (WHY)