President Jokowi Hopes for Dutch Support Against EU’s Palm Oil Policy

President Jokowi shakes hands with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte after a joint press conference, at the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java, Monday (7/10). (Photo by: OJI/PR)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo hopes for the Netherlands’s support against the European Union’s policy on palm oil.

“I also appreciate an agreement between Indonesia and the Netherlands on capacity building for palm farmers to enhance the quality of palm oil which was signed on 26 September in New York, the United States,” President Jokowi said during a joint press conference with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, at the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java, Monday (7/10).

Also on that occasion, the President asserted that the Netherlands is one of Indonesia’s important partners in Europe on trade, investment, and tourism sectors.

“Among European countries, the Netherlands is the second-largest trading partner for Indonesia, the largest investor in Indonesia, and the fourth-largest contributor of European tourists visiting Indonesia,” he said.

The Head of State went on to say that amid global economic slowdown, we need to enhance cooperation on the economy with our partners, including the Netherlands.

“On trade sector, we have agreed to maintain an open and fair trade,” the President said while once again reiterated Indonesia’s concern against European Union’s policy on palm oil.

President Jokowi also told the country’s counterpart to enhance their partnership on maritime infrastructure and water management.

The meeting between the two leaders also discussed cooperation on vocational sector including in maritime and nursing fields since the Government of Indonesia in the next five years will focus on developing human resources.

The President also expressed his highest appreciation to the Dutch Government for its commitment in respecting the sovereignty of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).  (FID/OJI/ES)

Translated by : Rany Anjany Subachrum
Edited by : Mia Medyana Bonaedy