Indonesia to Attend 58th ASEAN Economic Ministers Meeting in Manila

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri is scheduled to attend the 58th ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Meeting in Manila, Philippines, where regional economic integration and responses to growing global geopolitical and economic challenges will be discussed.

The meeting, hosted by the Philippines in its capacity as ASEAN Chair, will focus on advancing economic integration amid increasing geopolitical uncertainty and the evolving global economic landscape.

In a statement issued Friday, Roro, who will serve as Indonesia’s alternate representative at the AEM, said ASEAN was entering an important phase as it concludes the first year of implementing the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Strategic Plan 2026–2030.

“ASEAN remains united in addressing growing geoeconomic challenges, including rivalry among major powers, rising protectionism, energy market volatility, and supply chain disruptions. These challenges affect not only our economic growth but also the stability and security of our economies,” she said.

The 58th AEM Meeting, held under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” will discuss a range of regional economic priorities, including progress on key initiatives, the formalization of previously agreed decisions, and further advancement of the ASEAN economic integration agenda.

The meeting will also involve consultations with ASEAN dialogue and strategic partners aimed at strengthening external economic relations and promoting mutually beneficial cooperation.

Roro is scheduled to participate in several meetings on the sidelines of the AEM, including the 40th ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) Council Meeting, the Business Dialogue on ASEAN’s Digital Economy 2026, and the 5th Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Ministerial Meeting.

She will also hold bilateral meetings with representatives of Russia, China, the United Kingdom and Canada, in addition to participating in AEM consultation meetings with ASEAN’s strategic partners.

Emphasizing the importance of collective action, Roro said ASEAN must respond to emerging challenges with unity and determination to safeguard the region’s future.

“By acting collectively, ASEAN will strengthen its economic security architecture, helping the region withstand external pressures and remain competitive in the global economy,” she concluded.