Bogor, W Java (Indonesia Window) – Indonesian President Joko Widodo has expected that ASEAN Travel Corridor Arrangement (TCA) will be effectively implemented in the first quarter of 2021.

"I hope the ASEAN TCA can be effectively implemented in the first quarter of next year. This arrangement will raise optimism that our economic activities can gradually be restarted by applying health protocols. Our people cannot wait any longer, they want to see our region revive soon," the head of state remarked when delivering a speech at the 37th ASEAN Plenary Summit from the Bogor Presidential Palace, here on Thursday (Nov 12).

He welcomed the ASEAN Declaration on an ASEAN Travel Corridor Arrangement (TCA) Framework at the 37th ASEAN Summit which was held virtually.

The ASEAN Travel Corridor arrangement was proposed by the president at the 36th ASEAN Summit on June 26, 2020.

"I warmly welcome the ASEAN Declaration on an ASEAN Travel Corridor Arrangement Framework. For that, the plan to implement the ASEAN TCA should be realized soon,” the president said.

He urged the ASEAN Coordinating Council and the ASEAN Sectoral Bodies to work quickly and efficiently in order to implement the TCA.

According to him, ASEAN should immediately realize the establishment of a temporary fast lane and health protocols on departure and arrival; use integrated digital platforms in the region; determine the port of entry; and establish strict health protocols.

Reporting by Indonesia Window