Indonesian President Joko Widodo wants Australia to become a full member of ASEAN, signalling today he is keen on Canberra playing a bigger regional role in defence, trade and security matters.
His comments come with Australia hosting a special summit of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders in Sydney, as China increasingly flexes its muscle and the threat of violent extremism grows.
"I think it's a good idea," Widodo told the Sydney Morning Herald, referring to Australia joining ASEAN -- the first time an Indonesian president has endorsed the concept.
"Because our region will be better, (for) stability, economic stability, and also political stability. Sure, it will be better."
"The Sydney summit is the moment to launch the long conversation about Australia joining ASEAN."
"We are a dialogue partner with ASEAN and we respect that centrality of ASEAN and its significance and fundamental importance, central importance, in our region."
"As ASEAN chair, Singapore will continue to encourage Australia's engagement with ASEAN, and we will discuss taking the partnership forward."
"You know that no country is invulnerable from terrorism or extremism."