President Jokowi to Visit Four European Countries Next Week
Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi delivers a press briefing at Palapa Room of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jakarta, on Monday (11/4) afternoon
Accepting the invitation of several European countries leaders, President Joko Jokowi Widodo accompanied by First Lady Ibu Iriana Joko Widodo is scheduled to visit several European countries, among others: Germany, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The working visit will take place from Monday (18/4) to Friday (22/4). Besides having bilateral meetings with four European counterparts, the President is also scheduled to conduct a full meeting with the European Union (EU).
Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno L.P. Marsudi said that Indonesia is first country which has Comprehensive Partnership Agreement (PCA) with the EU. Therefore, Retno considered that the strong foundation we have possessed to be manifested in a concrete partnership which will bring benefits to people of both parties.
This working visit will strengthen strategic traditional partnership between Indonesia and the EU in addressing new global challenges, Retno said in a press briefing to national and international mass media, at Palapa Room of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jakarta, on Monday (11/4) afternoon.
Retno presented data showing the strong partnership between Indonesia and the EU. Retno mentioned that Indonesia-EU bilateral trade value in 2015 has generated US$26.4 billion, and makes the EU as Indonesia’s 4th largest trading partner in foreign trading.
On investment sector, the EU is Indonesias third largest investor with value of investments is at US$2.26 billion. Meanwhile, on tourism sector, the number of tourists from EU countries visiting Indonesia reaches 1 million people per year.
According to Minister Retno, several elements to be strengthened in Indonesias relations with four European countries to be visited by President Jokowi is economic cooperation, including the issues relating with trading, investment, and maritime.
From all programs that have been prepared so far, Presidents interaction with business people will be increased. Delegates from private sectors will accompany the President in his working visit to Europe, Retno explained.
Meanwhile, Retno added that President Jokowi will also discuss counter extremism and terrorism cooperation, as well as to discuss the importance of promoting tolerance.
Retno also said that the President, for the first time, will meet three Presidents of European Union, which are President of the European Council, President of the European Parliament, and President of the European Commission. President Jokowi will meet the three presidents individually, Retno concluded. (Dit. Infomed Kemlu/ES) (RAS/MMD/YM/Naster)
