S. Korea Proposes Collaboration in New Capital Development

Minister of National Development Planning/Head of National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) Suharso Monoarfa answers reporters’ questions, Jakarta, Tuesday (25/2) (Photo by: BPMI).

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo on Tuesday (25/2) at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta hosted South Korea’s Environment Minister Cho Myung-Rae.

The meeting discussed, among others, South Korea’s interest to be involved in the development of Indonesian new capital city in East Kalimantan, Minister of National Development Planning/Head of National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) Suharso Monoarfa said.

“President Jokowi welcomed the idea since there will be an opportunity to cooperate,” Suharso said.

Suharso pointed out that the two sides had not yet discussed the potential for cooperation in detail. However, South Korea has experience in developing a green and sustainable city, he said.

“The Minister himself has a background in urban development,” he added.

For the record, South Korea relocated its administrative capital to 72-square-kilometer city of Sejong to promote equal development and competitiveness. However, some key offices including the presidential office are to remain in Seoul. (BPMI)

Translated by: Galuh Wicaksono
Reviewed by: Muhammad Ersan Pamungkas