Indonesia, New Zealand Renew Commitment for Enhanced Cooperation

President Prabowo, Friday (11/15), holds a bilateral meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Lima, Peru. (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/Muchlis Jr)

On the sidelines of the 2024 APEC Summit in Peru, President Prabowo Subianto, Friday (11/15), held a bilateral meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Lima, Peru.

In his remarks, President Prabowo extended his appreciation for the presence of New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters at his presidential inauguration last month. “It’s a great honor,” President Prabowo said.

President Prabowo then emphasized his commitment to strengthening the well-established strategic relationship between Indonesia and New Zealand.

“We are in the same region and we have shared values and mutual interests. So, I’d like to reaffirm my commitment to continue this good relationship, to enhance the cooperation and friendship between us,” President Prabowo said.

President Prabowo also stated Indonesia’s readiness to strengthen bilateral trade relations, open markets, and participate in the Pacific Islands Forum. “Thank you, Prime Minister, and we look forward to a good engagement and a great future ahead,” he added.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Luxon congratulated President Prabowo on his inauguration and expressed his enthusiasm for further collaboration opportunities in the future.

“My government very much looks forward to building a stronger and deeper connection with your new administration,” Prime Minister Luxon said, adding that his administration was excited about the direction that Indonesia will take under President Prabowo’s leadership.

Prime Minister Luxon also praised Indonesia’s constructive role in the ASEAN region and globally while highlighting achievements in two-way trade, which has tripled since 2018. According to him, New Zealand and Indonesia also have opportunities for cooperation in renewable energy, food security, and tourism.

He also expressed appreciation for Indonesia’s cooperation in resolving a very sensitive issue, namely the release of New Zealand pilot Phillip Mertens. “We really appreciated the efforts from you and from all of your administration and the previous government as well, for what we’ve secured, which was a very good outcome,” he said. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/DNS) (FI/MMB)