Jakarta – The culmination of the 43rd ASEAN Summit at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) was held lively with an impressive Closing Ceremony, where the baton of ASEAN leadership was officially handed over to Laos. This event illustrates the successful cooperation between countries in achieving important results during the high-level meeting.
In an atmosphere full of enthusiasm and hope, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, representing Indonesia as host, expressed his thanks.
“This strengthens hope and enthusiasm to continue the struggle, creating a peaceful, stable and prosperous region,” said President Joko Widodo, at the closing ceremony of the 43rd ASEAN Summit (7/9).
Jokowi also revealed that 12 meetings had been held which resulted in 90 outcome documents and a number of concrete agreements with partners.
“During the meeting I captured the optimism and positive energy of all those present,” said President Jokowi.
At this event, the baton of ASEAN leadership was symbolically handed over from Indonesia to Laos. The handover of the ASEAN leadership to Laos was enthusiastically welcomed by the leaders of the member countries.
“And thus I officially close the 43rd ASEAN Summit and Other Related Summits. Furthermore, I invite His Excellency Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of Lao PDR, to continue the Chair of ASEAN in 2024,” said Jokowi.
Furthermore, President Joko Widodo invited His Excellency Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of Lao PDR, to accept the baton and take over the Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2024.
In his speech, the Prime Minister (PM) of Laos said he would take the leadership of what Indonesia had achieved.
“We will focus on strengthening the ASEAN community, among all,” said Sonexay Siphandone.
The Closing Ceremony is also a momentum to appreciate the role and cooperation of various parties, including the private sector, in supporting the success of the 43rd ASEAN Summit.
With a lively Closing Ceremony and a smooth handover of the ASEAN leadership, the 43rd ASEAN Summit was closed with a proud success. The highlight of this event was not only the moment of handing over the baton of leadership, but also strengthening strong cooperation and shared commitment to face global challenges.
The handover of leadership to Laos reflects the spirit of continuity and continuity in maintaining regional stability and progress. Thus, ASEAN continues to show its important role in realizing a safer, more stable and prosperous region for all member countries.
