Dr. Kao Kim Hourn highlighted ASEAN–United States ties and future milestones during commemorative reception in Indonesia
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn attended the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America as Guest of Honour at the residence of the United States Ambassador to Indonesia in Jakarta. The event brought together representatives from government, diplomacy, business, and other sectors to commemorate the historic milestone and reaffirm longstanding ties between ASEAN and the United States.
The reception was jointly hosted by the Embassy of the United States in Indonesia and the United States Mission to ASEAN. The gathering served as an opportunity to reflect on the enduring relationship between ASEAN and the United States and to engage with stakeholders from across the region.
In his remarks, Dr. Kao underscored the strength and resilience of the ASEAN–United States partnership, describing it as a longstanding relationship that has continued to evolve across multiple areas of cooperation. He noted that both sides would look forward to commemorating the 50th Anniversary of ASEAN–United States Dialogue Relations and the 5th Anniversary of the ASEAN–United States Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2027.
Dr. Kao also highlighted the role of sports in fostering international understanding and people-to-people exchanges. He welcomed the United States’ role as host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, noting that these global events would provide important platforms for strengthening connections among communities and promoting shared values through sport.
Addressing the significance of the United States’ 250th anniversary, Dr. Kao reflected on the country’s historical journey and contributions to international cooperation. In his concluding remarks, he stated, “Two hundred and fifty years in — the whistle has not blown. The game goes on. It will go on. Happy 250th, America! May God always bless the United States of America.”
The celebration reaffirmed the close engagement between ASEAN and the United States and highlighted the importance of continued cooperation across diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people domains. Both sides are expected to build on existing partnerships as they prepare to mark key bilateral milestones in 2027.
Source: The ASEAN Secretariat
