President Jokowi, PM James Marape Talk on Bilateral Cooperation between Indonesia, PNG

President Jokowi welcomes the Working Visit of Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea James Marape at the Bogor Palace, West Java province, Monday (07/15). (Photo by: Rahmat/PR)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo received the visit of Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (PNG) James Marape at the Bogor Presidential Palace in West Java province, Monday (15/07).

During the meeting, the two countries discussed cooperation in various fields, including defense, cross-border management, trade, health, and education.

“We discussed several issues. First, regarding bilateral cooperation, the implementation of the defense cooperation agreement is crucial for strengthening the security of both countries. Indonesia also welcomes the second Joint Business Forum and the signing of two MoUs on land cross-border transportation for passengers and goods, which are important to boost the economy and to strengthen ties between border communities,” said President Jokowi.

President Jokowi also encouraged collaboration between Indonesia and PNG through cooperation in health and education.

“I reiterate the importance of continuing discussions on Preferential Trade Agreement to boost trade between the two countries. I also highlight the importance of renewing the health cooperation agreement and signing an agreement on education cooperation to strengthen the collaboration between the two countries,” he said.

On that occasion, the President also emphasized that Indonesia and PNG have initiated cooperation in building electrical networks. Indonesia, through state-owned electricity company PT PLN, has completed the construction of an electrical network at the Skouw and Wutung border post. Indonesia is also committed to continuing support the development of PNG and other Pacific countries.

“The cooperation is starting today and electricity is now available in Wutung as of today. Indonesia is also committed to supporting the development of PNG and other Pacific countries, with various grant programs already put in place and ongoing, such as the renovation of a hospital in the capital Port Moresby and the construction of public facilities in West Sepik,” he explained.

Moreover, he went on to say that as a strategic partner, Indonesia appreciates PNG’s role in enhancing cooperation in the Pacific region. For that reason, President Jokowi expressed hope that PNG will continue to provide support on this issue.

“Regarding cooperation in the Pacific region, PNG as Indonesia’s closest neighbor and strategic partner is expected to support Indonesia in enhancing cooperation with the Pacific region, including the MSG (Melanesian Spearhead Group) and the PIF (Pacific Islands Forum),” the President said, adding that Indonesia has also provided assistance for the people of PNG who are affected by the landslide disaster. He expressed hope that the affected people can recover soon.

“Previously, Indonesia has sent assistances for the people of PNG who are affected by landslide disaster. I hope the assistance can ease the burden of the affected families,” he said. (TGH/DNS) (EST/MUR)