Jakarta – Canada strengthens cooperation with ASEAN through a financial contribution of USD 10.7 million to the ASEAN-Canada Plan of Action Trust Fund. Canadian Minister of International Development Ahmad Hussen said in an official statement that this support reflects Canada’s long-term interest in ASEAN.
This fund is expected to strengthen the strategic relationship between the two parties in various sectors, including sustainable development, trade, and green energy transition in the Southeast Asian region.
Hussen said in a press conference on Friday, February 14, that a close relationship with ASEAN will benefit all parties. He said the contribution is part of the Canadian efforts to strengthen economic, environmental, and development cooperation.
In addition to focusing on development and the economy, the fund supports clean energy transition initiatives. Canada highlighted the importance of accelerating green energy in ASEAN, including Indonesia, through investments in sustainable projects and low-carbon technologies.
Hussen said that ASEAN has great potential in renewable energy, and Canada wants to partner in this journey. He said that with the right investments, dependence on fossil fuels can be reduced, and new opportunities for clean energy development will open.
The ASEAN-Canada Plan of Action is a key pillar in the two parties’ cooperation for the 2021-2025 period. The program aims to deepen economic integration, strengthen social resilience, and increase resilience to climate change. With this new injection of funds, Canada hopes to accelerate the implementation of the agreed programs.
Hussen reiterated that he wants to see ASEAN and Canada grow together as equal partners. He said that Canada is committed to strengthening dialogue and cooperation in various sectors of mutual priority through this initiative.
Canada’s commitment to supporting ASEAN does not stop at the economic and energy aspects. The country is also active in various social and environmental initiatives that aim to create a more stable, inclusive, and sustainable Southeast Asian region. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: Social Soup Social Media/Pexels.com
