Wahyu Dwi Anggoro
IDXChannel - ASEAN Foreign Ministers held the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' (AMM) Retreat in Luang Prabang, Laos, on Monday(29/1/2024).
The first ministerial-level meeting under Laos' chairmanship agreed to continue the outcomes of Indonesia's chairmanship from the previous year.
"Some of the agreements from the AMM Retreat include the continuity of various deliverables from Indonesia's chairmanship last year, including support for the continuation of the ASEAN-Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF) and the ongoing implementation of the ASEAN Human Rights Dialogue," said Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi in a press statement after the meeting.
Additionally, the meeting agreed to continue prioritising the maritime agenda in ASEAN to promote regional maritime stability and cooperation, including blue economy initiatives and the organisation of the ASEAN Maritime Forum (AMF)/Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum (EAMF).
Another agreement is to continue emphasising the implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) in various ASEAN-led mechanisms. In this regard, Indonesia's Concept Note on AOIP-based Comprehensive Regional Architecture has been approved for further discussion.
The meeting also expressed support for the China-Japan-South Korea Trilateral Summit plan.
Regarding Palestine, the meeting conveyed concerns and a call for an immediate cessation of violence and a ceasefire in Gaza. It strongly condemned acts of violence against civilians, expressed support for a two-state solution, and urged Israel to comply with the International Court of Justice's decision on Gaza.
The AMM Retreat was divided into two sessions: Session I discussed Laos' priorities as the ASEAN Chair and follow-ups from the previous summit, including the implementation of the Five Point Consensus (5PC), while Session II addressed regional and international situations. (WHY)
