Indonesia Takes ASEAN Coordinated Working Chair, Expands US Engagement Agenda

During a ceremony at the Cambodian Embassy in Washington, Ambassador Koy Kuong transferred the ASEAN Coordinated Working (ACW) chair to Indonesian Ambassador Indroyono Soesilo. In a statement, Indroyono said the leadership reflects Southeast Asia’s readiness to be a strong, relevant and constructive partner for the United States and the wider world. The ACW agenda under Indonesia will broaden beyond traditional diplomatic and security topics to include trade, investment, connectivity, education, the digital economy, artificial intelligence, climate change, energy, health, innovation, maritime security and space technology.

These themes mirror Indonesia’s own priorities such as clean energy, talent development and supply-chain resilience. The chairmanship also seeks to uphold ASEAN centrality and promote a peaceful, open, rules-based Indo-Pacific. Indonesia will launch its term with an ASEAN Cultural Day at the Civic Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, on October 14, 2026, featuring the ASEAN Spouse Circle.