AGMF Secretariat Courtesy Visit to the Japanese Mission to ASEAN: Strengthening ASEAN–Japan Local Government Diplomacy

Jakarta, 12 February 2026 — The Secretariat of the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF), hosted by the United Cities and Local Governments Asia-Pacific (UCLG ASPAC), paid a courtesy visit to the Embassy of Japan in Jakarta to reaffirm cooperation between ASEAN local governments and Japan. The meeting brought together the AGMF Secretariat team, led by Secretary General Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi and AGMF Strategic Advisor Mr. Lee Yoong Yoong, with H.E. Yonetani Koji. The discussion centred on strengthening collaboration at the local government level within the broader framework of the ASEAN–Japan partnership.

UCLG ASPAC highlighted its role as the Secretariat of AGMF, a platform that connects governors and mayors across Southeast Asia to exchange knowledge and advance shared priorities. With AGMF 2026 scheduled to take place in Manila, the Forum is expected to further support local governments in contributing to the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

Ambassador Koji shared Japan’s priorities in ASEAN cooperation, including disaster risk reduction, maritime cooperation, and digital transformation. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that technological advancement remains human-centred and aligned with ethical principles. Japan’s experience in promoting public awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was also noted as a valuable reference for strengthening community engagement at the local level.

The meeting concluded in a constructive spirit, reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing ASEAN–Japan cooperation through enhanced local government engagement and future collaborative initiatives.