Jakarta, 7 September 2023 – The 43rd ASEAN Summit drew to a close, leaving Southeast Asian countries and their global partners with a renewed sense of optimism and positive energy. Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo, speaking at the conclusion of the summit at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC), highlighted the significant achievements and the bright outlook for the region.

President Jokowi expressed his deep appreciation to all state leaders and guests who graced the event with their presence. Over the course of three days, the summit witnessed twelve meetings resulting in 90 outcome documents and several concrete agreements with partner nations. The spirit of optimism and positive energy that permeated the meetings left an indelible mark, reinforcing hope and inspiring collective efforts towards creating a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region.

President Joko Widodo (left) gives the hammer as a symbol of handing over the 2024 ASEAN Chairmanship to Lao PDR’s Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone after his closing speech at the 43rd ASEAN Summit 2023 in Jakarta, Thursday (7/9/2023). 2023 ASEAN Summit Media Center/ Zabur Karuru/foc.

The 43rd ASEAN Summit held a dual significance. It not only strengthened ASEAN’s role but also bolstered the Indo-Pacific region as a bastion of peace and inclusiveness. President Jokowi emphasized that this achievement forms the cornerstone for ushering ASEAN into a brighter future, both for its people and the global community.

Under Indonesia’s Chairmanship, the concept of making ASEAN the Epicentrum of Growth has taken root and flourished. President Jokowi underscored that this vision encapsulates the essence of Indonesia’s leadership, aimed at propelling ASEAN to new heights.

However, he acknowledged that the task is far from complete. The work of ASEAN cannot be fulfilled within a single chairmanship. As the region navigates through various dynamics and complex global challenges, unity and collaboration are paramount. President Jokowi urged the member nations to work together, transforming challenges into opportunities, rivalries into collaboration, exclusivity into inclusiveness, and differences into unity.

He emphasized that ASEAN nations must be the captains of their own ships, and now is the time for the baton of leadership to pass on to Lao PDR, the incoming chair. It’s a testament to the cooperative spirit within ASEAN that has been the driving force behind its successes.

President Jokowi concluded his address by extending an invitation to ASEAN countries to continue strengthening collaboration. He emphasized the importance of working together for a peaceful and prosperous ASEAN, striving to create a better world for all. As he formally declared the 43rd ASEAN Summit and Related Summits concluded, the legacy of this summit will undoubtedly serve as a beacon guiding ASEAN toward a brighter, more prosperous future.