The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and ASEAN are advancing discussions to strengthen their cooperation across several sectors. UAE Ambassador to Indonesia, Abdulla Salem AlDhaheri, announced that a UAE-ASEAN committee meeting on this initiative is scheduled for Thursday. This meeting follows initial discussions held during a dinner at the ambassador’s residence in Jakarta on Wednesday evening.

Ambassador AlDhaheri emphasized that cooperation between the UAE and ASEAN is not limited to trade but extends to sustainable development, highlighting the shared goals of both regions in various domains. He expressed optimism about deepening the relationship in meaningful ways that address long-term regional needs.

The UAE-ASEAN collaboration currently focuses on three key areas: food security, port network development, and energy. Ambassador AlDhaheri pointed out that these areas are critical to the long-term stability and growth of both the UAE and ASEAN member countries.

One of the upcoming agenda items includes a discussion on carbon capture initiatives to help reduce ASEAN’s emissions. While these projects are still in the planning phase, the ambassador noted that they would be among the primary topics at Thursday’s meeting, showcasing both parties’ commitment to environmental sustainability.

In addition to these priority areas, Ambassador AlDhaheri mentioned that the UAE and ASEAN are exploring collaborations in education, healthcare, and renewable energy. He expressed hope for further engagement in these fields, anticipating that both regions stand to gain significantly from increased cooperation.

Renewable energy, in particular, has become a focal point, given the global shift towards cleaner energy sources. Ambassador AlDhaheri believes that the UAE’s expertise in renewable energy can help ASEAN countries transition to more sustainable practices, enhancing their resilience to global energy challenges.

The dinner event, held in Jakarta, was attended by several prominent figures, including Sultan B. Najamudin, Chairman of the Indonesian Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), Pakistan’s Ambassador to Indonesia Ameer Khurram Rathore, and Kanchana Wanichkorn, Director of Sectoral Development at the ASEAN Secretariat.

Through these gatherings, the UAE Embassy aims to foster a more robust, interconnected future with ASEAN. The ambassador expressed confidence in the outcomes of the meetings and looked forward to further progress in the UAE-ASEAN partnership.

With the focus on broadening ties, this cooperation effort between the UAE and ASEAN promises to support the economic and environmental stability of the region, signaling a deeper, sustainable alliance in the years to come. (Uki Ruknuddin)