Mikser encouraged ASEAN states to adopt digital solutions

Estonian Foreign Minister Sven Mikser took part in the 22nd ministerial meeting of the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), held in Brussels on 21 January. At the meeting he affirmed Estonian support for the EU plan to elevate relations with ASEAN to the level of a strategic partnership.

According to the minister, it is in the interests of the EU as well as ASEAN to preserve a rules-based international order. “We all wish to see a rules-based and efficient multilateral system of international relations, where the protection of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of every state is ensured,” Mikser emphasised. “The aim is a peaceful, safe and stable international environment that brings benefits to EU and ASEAN states,” he added.

Mikser stressed the importance of digital coherence in the context of the cooperation between the two regional associations. “Digital coherence is the key when talking about improving economic cooperation, modern services, employment and education,” the Foreign Minister said and encouraged ASEAN countries to make use of the opportunities offered by digital solutions to ensure mutual benefits. “An open, free and accessible cyber space helps growth in many areas of life,” Mikser said.

The Foreign Minister also pointed out the increasing occurrence of cyber-attacks. “We must jointly invest time and financial resources in the security of cyber space and protecting our networks,” he stressed.

The ministers of EU and ASEAN adopted a joint statement, emphasising the importance of shared values and the wish for a longstanding partnership. 

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations was founded in 1967 in Bangkok and includes 10 states: founding members Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, and Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. In 2019, the Presidency of ASEAS in held by Thailand. The EU is the second largest trading partner of ASEAN and ASEAN is the third largest partner of the EU outside Europe (after USA and China).

Additional information:
Sandra Kamilova
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Communication Department
56675362
[email protected]