AIS Summit Strengthens the Foundation and Framework for Cooperation between Island Countries
Nusa Dua, Bali –The first High-Level Conference of the Archipelagic and Island State Forum (AIS Forum Summit) in Bali takes place 10-11 October 2023. This summit aims to promote and strengthen mutually beneficial maritime cooperation between member countries, with a focus on important issues such as maritime security, trade and environmental sustainability.
In the official opening of this event, leaders from various countries, diplomats and maritime experts gathered to discuss issues that constitute major challenges in the maritime context. This conference received special attention from the international community, because maritime is an increasingly important issue in global development.
Deputy for Tourism and Creative Economy of the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment (Kemenko Marves) Odo Manuhutu stated “Indonesia is proud to host this year’s AIS Forum Summit. Bali is a suitable place to discuss maritime issues, because Indonesia, as the largest archipelagic country in the world, has valuable experience and knowledge.”
One of the main highlights of the AIS Forum Summit was increasing maritime security cooperation. Member countries are committed to improving coordination in addressing issues such as maritime piracy, maritime border security, and eradicating illegal trade in their waters. This is expected to bring further stability and security to the Asian maritime region.
Improving inter-island connectivity and maritime infrastructure was the main topic of discussion. Member countries are committed to increasing investment in port development, maritime transportation networks and expanding trade routes that benefit all parties.
On another occasion, Head of the AIS Forum Secretariat, Riny Modaso, said that Head of the AIS Forum Secretariat, Riny Modaso, the impact of the AIS Forum would not be felt in the short term, one, two or five years. However, the impact of the AIS Forum is long-term, so the impact will be felt on Indonesia and the world after the next 10-15 years.
“So the view is 10-15 years, because in the state and nation what the cabinet is doing now is building the foundation and the benefit for Indonesia is that we are showing the international world that one of the mandates in the opening of the 1945 Constitution is how to contribute to world peace and security . “We have indeed developed ASEAN, now is the time for Indonesia to develop new ideas, one of which is the AIS Forum which is very focused on non-political issues,” said Riny.
In a warm and passionate atmosphere, the member countries of the 2023 AIS Forum Summit are determined to build a safer, more sustainable and mutually beneficial maritime future for all.
