 We are committed to multilateralism to also extend beyond our borders. The South China Sea, the Korean Peninsula, the Myanmar issue remain hotspots that can destabilize the region. Therefore, I encourage peaceful resolutions to every dispute and seek cooperation rather than disloyalty competition. I believe that our projection will benefit no one, and hence all parties must exercise self-restraint to prevent miscalculation and escalation. I am delighted to note that ASEAN and Japan have recently established the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. On the 50th year of ASEAN, Japan Friendship and Cooperation also will be held in Japan between 16 and 18 December 2023 to mark this milestone.