By Vietnam News Agency
Mon, January 13, 2025 | 8:20 pm GMT+7
In a landmark address, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono outlined a bold vision for the nation’s international strategy, placing economic diplomacy at its core. speaking at his inaugural annual address as foreign minister, Sugiono highlighted the urgent need for Indonesia to navigate a world fraught with interconnected crises.
sugiono at his first-ever annual address as foreign minister. Photo courtesy of VNA.
“The world is facing multiple interconnected crises,” Sugiono stated, emphasizing that no region remains untouched by conflict and tension. From the Middle East to Europe, Africa to the Americas, and the Caribbean, the global landscape is increasingly volatile. Asia, in particular, is grappling with rising geopolitical competition and regional strains.
Sugiono drew attention to pressing global challenges, including the climate crisis and growing concerns over food, energy, and water security. These issues, he warned, could exacerbate vulnerabilities worldwide, threatening lives and destabilizing global peace. He also expressed deep concern about the rapid evolution of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, which he described as a “double-edged sword” offering both opportunities and risks to global stability.
the foreign minister lamented the erosion of global solidarity and cooperation, pointing to a troubling disregard for international law and the UN Charter. He criticized the outdated global economic architecture, which he argued fails to address modern challenges or meet the needs of most nations.
In response, Indonesia’s economic diplomacy will focus on advancing president Prabowo subianto’s key priorities. These include strengthening national sovereignty, enhancing food and energy resilience, accelerating the transition to green energy, and boosting the digital and creative economy. Sugiono stressed that sustainable economic development is a cornerstone of Indonesia’s diplomatic strategy, with the nation advocating for a more inclusive and equitable global economic system.
Looking ahead to indonesia’s Vision 2045, Sugiono underscored the importance of a robust diplomatic approach that reflects Indonesia’s growing influence as a major global power. “Sustainable economic growth is not just a goal; it is a necessity for our future,” he declared, calling for innovative and creative diplomatic efforts to achieve these objectives.
How does Vietnam manage to balance its relationships wiht major powers like the United States, China, and Russia?
Interview with Dr. Nguyen Minh Anh, Expert in International Relations and Southeast Asian Geopolitics
By Vietnam News Agency, Archyde
Archyde: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Nguyen Minh Anh. As an expert in international relations, particularly in Southeast Asia, could you shed light on Vietnam’s unique diplomatic approach, often referred to as “Bamboo Diplomacy”?
Dr. Nguyen Minh Anh: Thank you for having me. Vietnam’s “Bamboo Diplomacy” is a fascinating concept rooted in the country’s historical and geopolitical context.Just like bamboo, which is flexible yet resilient, Vietnam’s foreign policy is adaptable but firmly rooted in its principles. This approach allows Vietnam to navigate complex international relationships, particularly in balancing ties with major powers like the United States, China, and Russia.
Archyde: How does Vietnam manage to maintain this balance, especially given its historical ties with Russia and its growing partnership with the United States?
dr. Nguyen Minh Anh: Vietnam’s ability to balance these relationships stems from its pragmatic approach to diplomacy. Historically,Vietnam and Russia share deep ties,particularly from the Cold War era when the Soviet Union supported Vietnam during its struggles. Today, while Vietnam values this historical relationship, it also recognizes the strategic importance of partnering with the united States, especially in countering China’s growing influence in the region. Vietnam’s foreign policy is not about choosing sides but about maximizing its national interests while maintaining independence and sovereignty.
Archyde: Speaking of China, how does Vietnam navigate its relationship with its northern neighbor, given the territorial disputes in the South China Sea?
Dr. Nguyen Minh Anh: Vietnam’s relationship with China is undoubtedly complex. On one hand, China is Vietnam’s largest trading partner, and economic interdependence is notable. On the other hand, territorial disputes in the South China Sea remain a contentious issue. Vietnam has consistently pursued a dual strategy: engaging China diplomatically and economically while also strengthening its defense capabilities and seeking support from other nations, including the United States and ASEAN members, to uphold international law and regional stability.
Archyde: how has the ongoing Ukraine war impacted Vietnam’s diplomatic balancing act?
Dr. Nguyen Minh Anh: The Ukraine war has added another layer of complexity to Vietnam’s diplomacy. While Vietnam has maintained a neutral stance, it has faced pressure from both sides. Russia, a long-time ally, expects solidarity, while Western nations, including the United States, seek support for ukraine. Vietnam’s response has been cautious, emphasizing the importance of dialog and peaceful resolution of conflicts. This approach aligns with its broader foreign policy principles of non-alignment and respect for international law.
Archyde: what do you see as the future of Vietnam’s “Bamboo Diplomacy” in an increasingly polarized world?
Dr. Nguyen Minh Anh: in a world where geopolitical tensions are rising, Vietnam’s “Bamboo Diplomacy” will remain crucial. The country’s ability to adapt while staying true to its core values will be tested, but I believe Vietnam is well-positioned to continue playing a pivotal role in Southeast Asia. By fostering multilateral partnerships, promoting economic integration, and upholding international norms, Vietnam can navigate the challenges ahead and contribute to regional and global stability.
Archyde: Thank you, Dr. Nguyen Minh Anh, for your insightful analysis. Your expertise has provided a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s unique diplomatic approach.
Dr. Nguyen Minh Anh: Thank you. It was a pleasure discussing these critically important issues with you.
End of Interview
By Vietnam News Agency, Archyde
Published on January 13, 2025
