UN SecGen Commends ASEAN on Climate, Peace Advocacy in ASEAN-UN Summit

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The United Nations Secretary-General António Manuel de Oliveira Guterres commends ASEAN's contribution on several issues, ranging from regional concerns to global challenges. António Guterres extends his appreciation in his opening remarks at the 13th ASEAN-United Nations Summit on Thursday, September 7, 2023.

“I deeply appreciate Indonesia and ASEAN’s determined advocacy on the climate crisis, sustainable development, and non-proliferation and disarmament,” the Secretary-General says in the press release received by Tempo today.

According to António Guterres, the world is currently stretched to the breaking point by a cascade of crises, including the worsening climate emergency, escalating wars and conflicts, growing poverty, widening inequalities, and rising geopolitical tensions. António Guterres believes the key to forging a better future is the implementation of Indonesia’s national motto, ‘Unity in Diversity’.

Concerning peace in the region, the UN Secretary-General says that he appreciates the bloc’s constructive role in defusing tensions from the South China Sea to the Korean Peninsula by prioritizing dialogue and promoting respect for international law.

In addition, he expresses continued concern about the situation in Myanmar, commending Indonesia’s approach during its chairmanship in ASEAN. “I welcome ASEAN’s principled approach through the Five-Point Consensus," he remarks. "I also appreciate the determined efforts of Indonesia as the Chair of ASEAN to engage all sides of the conflict in political dialogue."

António Guterres also highlights global climate issues, calling for greater cooperation on the climate front. According to him, time is running out, and nation leaders must take immediate action to find climate solutions.

“I have called for a Climate Solidarity Pact, in which all big emitters make extra efforts to cut emissions and wealthier countries mobilize financial and technical resources to support emerging economies,” he says. 

The Secretary-General also calls for a reformation of the global financial architecture, effective debt workout mechanism, increased liquidity, and implementation of SDG Stimulus to multiply the global resources on combating climate challenges.

He commends ASEAN members, namely Indonesia and Vietnam that pioneer Just Energy Transition Partnerships, calling it a crucial tool to unlock emission cuts, boost renewables, and grow the green economy.

“ASEAN can set an example to the world, as a global green economic powerhouse and trailblazer of an energy transition that is sustainable, just, inclusive, and equitable,” he concludes.

NAJLA NUR FAUZIYAH

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