Indonesia, Australia to Reinforce Bilateral Partnership

President Jokowi and Australian PM Scott Morrison pose for a photo after an agreement signing in Canberra, Australia, Monday (10/2). (Photo by: PR/Dindha Moerti)

Indonesia and Australia committed to strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation.

“Australia sees Indonesia not only as a neighbor but a leader of a region which can be a good partner for Australia on many issues,” Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi stated during a press conference at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A Park Hyatt Hotel, in Canberra, Australia, Monday (10/2).

Retno also explained the plan of action for the implementation of a strategic comprehensive partnership. The plan allows both Governments to focus on what to be done for the next five years.

The ratification of the Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA), the Minister said, be of great importance to the visit. One of the follows-ups of the IA-CEPA, according to her, is the establishment of an energy forum between the two countries as well as to ensure that the IA-CEPA is beneficial for both nations and the people.

“We have designed the first 100 of what we can do together, among other things, I happen to speak with Australian Minister of Trade, there will be a visit of Australian business delegation to Indonesia which will be led directly by the Minister of Trade,” Retno said, adding that the visit will also include the visit of Australian major investors.

During the visit, both countries will likely discuss infrastructure cooperation, issues of working holiday visa and education.

After the ratification of IA-CEPA, she added, Indonesia is expected to be a part of Global Value Chains with Australia. It is important for Indonesia to continuously advance in investment, tourism, and others.

On the occasion, the Indonesian Government asked Australia to review the current policy on visa. “In terms of process, it takes a long time to acquire a visa and others. The Australian PM has agreed to reconsider the visa policies for Indonesia,” Retno stated.

According to her, Indonesia puts great importance on its relationship with Australia. President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo at the joint session clearly illustrated the bilateral ties in the past 70 years as well as designs for the next 30 years, marking a 100-year partnership.

“Of course we have a large capital in the sense of the value of democracy, the value of tolerance, pluralism, we have it all, we have the capital of young Indonesians and Australians, we also have the designs such as Indo-Pacific cooperation,” she added.

The Indonesian Government wishes to make Australia one of its prominent partners. The sentiment is echoed by the Australian Government (MAY/EN)

Translated by: Fairuzzamani Inayatillah
Reviewed by: Mia M. Bonaedy