Indonesia to Host ASEAN Blue Economy Forum in Banyuwangi
Dragon Media News Desk
Indonesia will host an international forum on the blue economy in Banyuwangi district, East Java province, on July 17 and 18, bringing together ASEAN member states and partner countries to exchange best practices on sustainable ocean-based development.
The two-day event, titled the ASEAN-ID Blue Forum, will focus on the sustainable use of marine and coastal resources, environmental conservation, economic development and the long-term welfare of coastal communities.
The forum will be jointly organised by Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, in cooperation with New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Adhyanti Sardanarini Wirajuda, an official at Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry, said Banyuwangi was selected as the host because of the district’s success in integrating marine conservation with fisheries, tourism, small businesses and community empowerment.
She said Banyuwangi had developed an effective model that combined the protection of marine and coastal resources with local economic activity and improved livelihoods for coastal communities. Indonesia hopes to share this experience with other participating countries.
The forum is expected to bring together representatives from ASEAN member states, East Asia Summit participating countries and members of the Pacific Islands Forum.
Discussions will focus on regional opportunities in the blue economy, sustainable fisheries management, marine biodiversity conservation, the economic empowerment of coastal communities and stronger cross-border cooperation in managing ocean resources.
The blue economy promotes the use of marine and coastal resources to support economic growth and employment while ensuring the long-term protection of marine ecosystems, biodiversity and local communities.
Through the Banyuwangi forum, Indonesia aims to strengthen practical cooperation among ASEAN, East Asian and Pacific countries and promote the exchange of successful approaches to sustainable marine development.
