Joint Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia and Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea after the Indonesia-Papua New Guinea Bilateral Meeting, at the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java Province, July 15, 2024

His Excellency Prime Minister (PM) Marape and delegation,

I am happy that PM Marape can visit Indonesia again. And this visit shows the increasingly closer brotherhood between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea (PNG). Previously, Indonesia has also provided assistance to our brothers and sisters in PNG who were affected by landslides. We hope that it can ease the burden on the affected residents.

During our meeting moments ago, we discussed several issues. The first one is related to bilateral cooperation. The entry into force of a defense cooperation agreement is very important to strengthen both countries’ security. Indonesia also welcomes the implementation of the second Joint Business Forum and the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding on land cross-border for passenger and goods transportation, which are important for improving the economy and strengthening relations among residents living at the border.

I also reiterate the importance of continuing discussions on the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) to increase trade between both countries, as well as the renewal of the health cooperation agreement and the signing of education cooperation agreement to strengthen collaboration between both countries.

With regard to the construction of the electricity network by PLN (Indonesia’s state-owned electricity company) on the Skouw-Wutung border, I can say that this collaboration started today and electricity is already turned on in Wutung today. Furthermore, Indonesia is also committed to supporting the development of PNG and other Pacific countries, where various grant programs have been carried out and are still ongoing, such as renovation of hospitals in Port Moresby and construction of public facilities in West Sepik.

And the second issue is related to cooperation in the Pacific region. With regard to PNG’s position as Indonesia’s close neighbor and strategic partner, Indonesia appreciates and always hopes for PNG’s support in increasing cooperation with the Pacific communities, including the MSG (Melanesian Spearhead Group) and the PIF (Pacific Islands Forum).

That concludes my statement. Hereafter, I respectfully invite Prime Minister Marape to deliver his statement.

We welcome you.

(TM/MUR)