Minister Joly to attend ASEAN meetings in Indonesia
News release
July 12, 2023 – Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
With more than four decades of robust cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its member states, Canada is further strengthening its long-lasting partnership with ASEAN and contributing to our mutual interests in security, economic prosperity and sustainable development.
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that she will be travelling to Jakarta, Indonesia, from July 13 to 15, 2023, to attend the 56th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and related meetings.
On July 13, Minister Joly will participate in the ASEAN-Canada Post Ministerial Conference with ASEAN Foreign Ministers to advance shared priorities. Minister Joly will discuss with her counterparts key issues, such as regional stability, respect for the rules-based international order, inclusive economic growth, and mitigating climate change. She will also take the opportunity to provide an update on the progress of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy implementation in the region, highlighting its alignment with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.
On July 14, Minister Joly will attend the 30th ASEAN Regional Forum to exchange views on pressing regional peace and security issues. Key topics of discussion will include tensions in the East and South China Seas, the Myanmar crisis, the continued threats posed by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea’s (North Korea) nuclear and ballistic missile programs, and Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine. The Minister will reiterate Canada’s steadfast support for ASEAN centrality in addressing regional challenges with international partners to uphold a free, open, stable, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
Quotes
“Over the years, Canada and ASEAN have forged a remarkable, mutually beneficial partnership built on trust, shared values, and on being there when it matters. At a time when the impact of climate change is accelerating and geopolitical competition continues to rise, Canada is elevating its engagement with ASEAN as we strive for a future that is prosperous, resilient, secure and inclusive for all of our people.”
- Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Quick facts
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ASEAN is a priority partner in Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, which sets out an ambitious plan for Canada’s increased engagement in the region over the next decade.
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Canada is one of 11 ASEAN dialogue partners and has a diplomatic presence in all 10 member states, as well as a dedicated ambassador to ASEAN.
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As a founding member, Canada has participated in the foreign ministers-led ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) since 1994. Canada considers the ARF to be a valuable multilateral forum for dialogue on regional security issues and for increasing cooperation with ASEAN member states.
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ASEAN is Canada’s fourth-largest trading partner globally and second-largest trading partner in the Indo-Pacific. With a combined GDP of $5 trillion and a population of approximately 660 million, ASEAN represents the world’s fifth-largest economy and third-most populous consumer market.
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With a population of over 270 million and a GDP of $1.6 trillion, Indonesia is Southeast Asia’s most populous country and has its largest economy, creating significant trade and investment opportunities for Canada.
Associated links
Contacts
Emily Williams
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
emily.williams@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
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