Jakarta, IO – Archipelagic countries need to strengthen partnerships to advance the maritime economy and contribute solutions to address various global challenges. We all depend on the ocean for food and life, so a sustainable marine economy is a common goal that should unite us, said Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi at the opening of the 4th Ministerial Meeting of Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum in Bali, Tuesday (6/12).
She said the oceans present big challenges such as rising sea levels, marine debris, and excessive exploitation of marine resources. If left unchecked, archipelagic countries will feel the worst impact.
“The AIS Forum must become a platform for collaboration in overcoming global challenges, including through synergy with other initiatives,” said Retno, according to Kemlu.go.id.
In the meeting, the participants agreed to bolster cooperation in a number of strategic programs in the field of economic recovery, achieving sustainable development goals especially related to maritime affairs, innovative financing, blue economy, and advancing research for marine resource management.
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This year’s meeting was attended by 22 countries and two international organizations. The AIS Forum was formed at the initiative of Indonesia to foster cooperation among archipelagic and small island states in 2018. It has 47 members and focuses on concrete cooperation to tackle the impacts of climate change and marine debris while advancing blue economy and encourage good governance in marine resource management. (bp)