University students from 10 ASEAN member countries and Japan have participated in a diplomatic role-playing exercise. The aim of the activity was to build mutual understanding and create a regional network.

Seventy-two students took part in the model meeting. The event was held at the bloc's headquarters in Jakarta. Japanese students participated in the conference for the first time. This comes amid the celebrations to mark the 50th year of ASEAN-Japan friendship and cooperation.

The participants pretended to be representatives of countries other than their own. They discussed issues, such as cybercrime, the post-COVID economic recovery, and education aimed at empowering young leaders. Then, they tried to draft a chairman's statement.

Katayama Taisei, a participant from Japan, pointed out that Japan's birthrate is declining. He said that the population in the ASEAN region is growing, and so is the region's economy. Katayama said that is why he thought it would be a good idea to participate in the event.

ASEAN and Japan are also scheduled to hold a young business leaders' summit. It will take place in central Japan next month.