February 5, 2023
No. 028
The 32nd Association of Southeast Asian Nations Coordinating Council Meeting and the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat were held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from February 3 to 4. The foreign ministers issued a joint statement after the retreat reiterating ASEAN’s concern over developments across the Taiwan Strait. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of China (Taiwan) welcomes and appreciates that the ASEAN foreign ministers again expressed concern over the situation across the Taiwan Strait after conveying a similar stance at a meeting in August 2022.
This latest statement pointed out that ASEAN members remain concerned with the implications of cross-strait developments on regional stability, which could lead to miscalculation, serious confrontation, open conflicts, and unpredictable consequences. It also affirmed that ASEAN stands ready to play a constructive role in facilitating peaceful dialogue between all parties through ASEAN-led mechanisms to de-escalate tension and safeguard peace, security, and development in the region.
The government of Taiwan looks forward to the success of the 2023 ASEAN Summit and related multilateral meetings held under the leadership of Indonesia, which is serving as rotating chair. It also urges ASEAN members to continue voicing support for democratic Taiwan and concern for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan is willing to continue to deepen cooperation with ASEAN countries on the existing solid foundation created by the New Southbound Policy in order to jointly preserve the rules-based international order and advance peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. (E)
Related Links
Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi chairs ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Jakarta
Press Statement by the Chair of the 32nd ASEAN Coordinating Council Meeting and ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat