As tensions between the United States and China continue to escalate, Indonesian President Joko Widodo emphasized the importance of maintaining the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a neutral entity and not allowing it to become a proxy for any country. The gathering of ASEAN foreign ministers in Jakarta focused on addressing regional issues, including the disputed South China Sea and the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. While divisions within ASEAN persist, the bloc remains committed to upholding international law and preserving peace and stability in the region.
ASEAN's Neutral Stance
President Widodo expressed his concerns during the ASEAN meeting, stressing that ASEAN cannot be used as a battleground for competing interests. He reiterated the need for consistent respect for international law, emphasizing that unity, solidarity, and centrality within ASEAN are crucial in maintaining regional peace and stability. The statement reflects ASEAN's commitment to being an independent entity that does not align itself with any specific country or geopolitical agenda.
The US-China Tensions
Tensions between the United States and China have been on the rise in recent years, fueled by various issues such as China's military exercises near Taiwan and the US imposing export restrictions on advanced semiconductors. Both China and the United States participated in the Jakarta meetings, with their top diplomats engaging in discussions on the sidelines. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi of potential consequences following a cybersecurity breach, while Wang urged the US not to interfere in China's internal affairs.
ASEAN's Stance on the Myanmar Crisis
The ASEAN bloc has faced internal divisions regarding its approach to the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. Since the military coup in 2021, Myanmar has experienced significant unrest and violence. ASEAN issued a communique on Thursday, reaffirming its condemnation of violence and reiterating the importance of a five-point peace plan agreed upon with the Myanmar junta. However, progress on the plan has been limited, leading to Myanmar's rulers being excluded from high-level summits. ASEAN's goal is to end the violence and facilitate dialogue between the military and the anti-coup movement.
Preserving Stability in the Indo-Pacific
Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi emphasized the importance of preventing the Indo-Pacific region from becoming another battleground in the US-China power struggle. During the 18-nation East Asia Summit ministerial meeting, Minister Marsudi emphasized the need for regional stability. The ASEAN bloc intends to maintain stability in the region, avoiding entanglement in geopolitical rivalries and ensuring that the Indo-Pacific remains a peaceful and secure area.
As tensions between the United States and China continue to escalate, ASEAN stands firm in its commitment to neutrality and unity. Indonesian President Joko Widodo's call to respect international law and prevent ASEAN from becoming a proxy for any country reinforces the bloc's commitment to maintaining its independence. While divisions persist within ASEAN, the bloc remains focused on resolving regional issues, such as the South China Sea disputes and the Myanmar crisis, and preserving stability in the Indo-Pacific region. ASEAN's determination to prioritize peace and stability in the face of US-China tensions serves as a testament to its role as a vital regional organization.