The Introductory Remarks of President Joko Widodo at a Bilateral Meeting with Prime Minister of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc, on 12 October 2018, at Nusa Dua Convention Center, Bali

Unofficial English Translation 

I wish to extend a welcome to Your Excellency and all Vietnam delegates to Bali.

Precisely a month ago, we met in Hanoi and discussed efforts required to improve our bilateral relationship. Similar to our discussion in Hanoi, the Bali meeting will be used to monitor the progress and some important issues in our bilateral relationship.

I believe the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Vietnam is not only indispensable for both nations, but it also brings benefit to ASEAN as well.

Before we proceed to the subject, allow me to express my condolences for the passing of President of Vietnam His Excellency Tran Dai Quang. I believe that his contribution to the development of Vietnam will always be remembered. I am also deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the former Secretary General of Vietnam Communist Party His Excellency Do Muoi on 1 October 2018. May their souls rest in peace.

I would also like to express my gratitude for the prayers, the condolences, and the assistance provided by Vietnam for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Palu and Donggala. Thank you once again.

I now give the floor to His Excellency. (PR Division of Cabinet Secretariat)(BC/AW/YM/Naster)