Jakarta, May 6 -- Trade Minister Budi Santoso departed for Cebu, Philippines, on Wednesday to attend the 48th ASEAN Summit to discuss several global development issues impacting the region.

Santoso emphasized that the meetings on May 7 and 8 serve as momentum to encourage more inclusive and sustainable economic integration in Southeast Asia.

"Indonesia wants to ensure that ASEAN remains a driver of inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and is able to respond to various global challenges together," he said in a statement.

Santoso added that the summit will also discuss efforts to maintain energy security and strengthen coordination in responding to geopolitical dynamics.

The regional bloc will also encourage strengthened economic ...