Japan plans to support the training of young civil servants in countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to promote close cooperation with the regional body.

Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa sent a video message to an event in Jakarta on Monday marking 50 years of friendship and cooperation between Japan and ASEAN.

Hayashi said the world is at a turning point with various issues intertwined, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This makes the current situation very complicated, but he added it is important for Japan and ASEAN to continue to develop together and lead the new era.

Hayashi went on to say that close cooperation between Japan and ASEAN is becoming increasingly important in maintaining and strengthening a free and open international order based on the rule of law.

He said that Japan will help to strengthen ASEAN's administrative functions, as well as support the training of young civil servants in the member countries.

Hayashi also said that discussions will be held to advance cooperation in fields including maritime and economic activities. They will be part of the vision for the next 50 years at a special ASEAN-Japan summit to be held around December in Japan.