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FM Sugiono highlights community resilience at ASEAN-Russia PMC

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sugiono, reaffirmed at the ASEAN-Russia Post Ministerial Conference (PMC) that the ASEAN-Russia partnership should prioritize strengthening the resilience of communities.Sugiono said resilience was not only about responding to crises but also about anticipating risks, adapting to change, and maintaining long-term peace, according to a statement from Indonesia's Foreign Ministry on Thursday.“Resilience is more than responding to crises. It is about anticipating risks, adapting to change, and safeguarding long-term peace,” Sugiono said.He highlighted the importance of building a stable, open, and resilient regional energy architecture, saying the ASEAN-Russia Energy Cooperation Work Programme for 2026-2030 would provide a strong foundation for long-term energy security.Sugiono also identified food security as a strategic priority, noting that Russia, as one of the world's largest suppliers of wheat and fertilizers, plays an important role in securing food supplies for ASEAN.“Reliable access is therefore essential: to safeguard agricultural production, stabilize food prices, and improve access to nutritious food,” he said.He added that modern agricultural technology and climate-resilient farming could also contribute to higher productivity and long-term food security.Sugiono said strengthening regional healthcare systems was another key priority, calling for greater capacity building and training exchanges for healthcare workers to improve preparedness for future health emergencies.He concluded by stressing that ASEAN-Russia cooperation should continue to be guided by the principles of multilateralism and respect for international law.“As we deepen this partnership, we must remain guided by a strong foundation, anchored in the principles of multilateralism, and respect for international law, with ASEAN Centrality as the compass,” he added.