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Sec. of State Encourages US Cooperation in Disability Forum

  • Posted Oct 10, 2023 16:48 by Kristen Winters
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INDONESIA: While in Indonesia to meet with fellow ASEAN leaders to discuss the development of the rights of persons with disabilities, Secretary of State for the Ministry of Social Affairs and Secretary-General of the Disability Action Council, Em Chan Makara, addressed the US-ASEAN Forum to promote collaboration between the region and the US on improving socio-economic independence of persons with disabilities.

During his opening address, the Secretary of State praised the partnership of ASEAN and the US for supporting accessibility in the ASEAN region, ultimately contributing to peace and stability. He also highlighted the importance of US support in combatting COVID-19 to strengthening the healthcare system and promoting people’s overall well-being in accordance with the region’s “No One Left Behind” policy.

He expressed hope that the US would continue to support ASEAN through the US-ASEAN Business Council to promote trade investment between the two regions which he said will provide more socio-economic independence and participation for persons with disability in physical spaces, as well as in information technology and communication systems. He said that accessibility can be improved through physical infrastructure, including buildings, roads, and transportation, communication tools, and other indoor and outdoor facilities, including schools, residences, medical facilities and workplaces.

“I am confident that our ‘accessibility’ spirit will lead to tangible results for further strengthening ASEAN-US friendship for many years in the long-run to realize the potential for ASEAN-US cooperation in the field of social affairs, especially focusing on disability,” he said.

He finished on a high note, saying he was optimistic about the future of persons with disabilities in the ASEAN region. “[We] look forward to the full and effective implementation of the "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership", which will actively contribute to ensuring peace, stability, security, and sustainable development for our people with disabilities,” he said.


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