The forum took place at a tumultuous period in global affairs where geopolitical and economic rivalries are on the rise, concocted by an almost perpetual conflict in Ukraine in which the international community has yet to see some light at the end of the tunnel.

Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi, representing ASEAN chair Indonesia, was invited to the gathering as a special guest to deliver a keynote address in which she highlighted ASEAN’s unified reluctance to see an Indo-Pacific region evolve into yet another theater of rivalry and wars, as is the case in other regions.

Another salient point featured in her address was the dire need for “collaboration” to achieve “concrete” deliverables of mutual interest to the EU and ASEAN within the Indo-Pacific realm.

Be that as it may, how does one, or two, even begin to realize these goals and aspirations amidst potential arch-rivalry looming over the Indo-Pacific region?

One good deed that may potentially kick-start a fine yet concrete collaboration was a modest handing-over ceremony from Minister Billström to Minister Retno of Sweden’s formal intention to accede to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in Southeast Asia at the margin of the EU Indo-Pacific Forum.

The TAC in Southeast Asia sets out the legally binding code for inter-state relations in the region toward the envisioned peaceful coexistence and friendly cooperation, which underlines the dynamics of the region. By signing this treaty, countries show their commitment to maintaining peaceful relations and building strong partnerships. It helps create a sense of trust and stability among nations, making the world a safer and more cooperative place to live.

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