Yogyakarta, September 17, 2026 — Center for Southeast Asian Social Studies at Universitas Gadjah Mada (CESASS UGM) presents a new conversation on academic and bilateral collaboration with Prof. Elo Süld, Director of the Center for Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Tartu, Estonia.
The visit explores the evolving relationship between Estonia and Indonesia and what it reveals about the future of cooperation between Europe and Southeast Asia or EU and ASEAN.
The discussion examines how Indonesia is becoming an important gateway for Estonia’s engagement with Southeast Asia and ASEAN, going beyond traditional bilateral relations. It explores Estonia’s approach to small-state diplomacy and opportunities for cooperation in areas including digitalization, innovation, trade, security, and education.
Prof. Süld also discusses the current state of Estonia–Indonesia relations, the significance of recent ministerial visits, and the broader challenges facing EU–ASEAN cooperation, including the long-running effort to establish an EU–ASEAN free trade agreement.
Another key theme is the “Brussels effect” and the continuing influence of European standards and regulations in Southeast Asia, particularly amid China’s growing economic and strategic presence in the global landscape.
The conversation asks how Estonia can leverage its relationship with Indonesia to contribute to stronger connections between the European Union and ASEAN, while navigating the diverse political and economic realities of Southeast Asia.
Ultimately, the Estonia–Indonesia relationship offers a useful case for understanding how small-state diplomacy can create new pathways for regional and interregional cooperation.
CESASS invites audiences to explore this conversation and consider what Estonia–Indonesia relations may tell us about the future of EU–ASEAN engagement.
Full conversation is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkJRTJY01CU
