President Jokowi Asks Japan to Invest in Indonesia’s Outer Islands Development

President Jokowi, accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi, receives Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Friday (10/1). (Photo by: Ibrahim/PR)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has invited Japan to invest in the development of Indonesia’s outer islands, Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi said.

The statement was made in addition to the investment in the Natuna islands following the heat with China on its claim of the area.

“There is nothing new and the President specifically said that some cooperation in Natuna has been discussed for a long time, such as development of fisheries including Integrated Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Center (SKPT), tourism development, and capacity building for fishermen,” Retno told reporters after Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi paid a courtesy call on President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo, at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Friday (10/1).

The Minister stated that the Natuna’s SKPT development has reached a second phase. The Government, she said, also wants cooperation on fishermen empowerment and others.

“So, once again, this issue has been discussed for a long time, the President reiterated (this matter) after his visit to Natuna and the point is that the development of fisheries in Natuna will continue to be strengthened,” Retno stated.

Retno also hinted that Japan’s investment in infrastructure will also continue.

The President, she said, expressed hope that the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’s draft can be signed this year.

The meeting also discussed cooperation in human resource development, both through vocational programs and internship/on-the-job training program.

“So, internship jobs in Japanese companies in Indonesia as well as Japanese language development,” the Minister stated, adding that Japan is currently in a shortage of workers and cooperation in language skills is needed to meet the demand for potential Japanese labor market. (MAY/HIM/ES)

Translated by: Fairuzzamani Inayatillah
Reviewed by: Muhardi
Proofread by: Lulu Wuliarti