Timor Leste is Indonesia’s Close Brother: President Jokowi

President Jokowi receives the Grand Collar of the Order from Timor Leste President Taur Matan Ruak (26/1)

President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo and First Lady Ibu Iriana Joko Widodo on Tuesday at 12.45 local time at Timor Leste Presidential Palace had a luncheon with President of the Republic Democratic of Timor Leste (RDTL) Taur Matan Ruak and the First Lady Isabel da Costa Fereira.

On that occasion, President Jokowi also received the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor Leste, the highest Timor Leste honor.

In his remarks, President Taur Matar Ruak said that he was pleased to bestow the honor to President Jokowi.

“It expresses the recognition of the state and of our people for the action carried out by President Widodo to forge closer ties between our countries and advance our mutual cooperation,” President Ruak said.

In the meantime, regarding the agreement on the border between the two countries, President Ruak said it is 98 percent completed and shows high understanding between the two countries.

President of Timor Leste also underscored his aim to continue promoting cooperation with the Indonesian Government in many fields.

“Timor Leste aims to continue to strengthen our efforts and contribute to achieve a political, economical, regional, and international order that is democratic and more just,” he said.

In the meantime, President Jokowi expressed his gratitude for the honor.

“I would like to express my gratitude for the honor from the President of Timor Leste. This is a big responsibility and will maintain close cooperation between Indonesia and Timor Leste,” President Jokowi said, adding that for Indonesia, Timor Leste is a close brother and both countries must continue to promote relations and cooperation.

“Indonesia is committed to becoming a major partner for Timor Leste,” the President said at the end of his remarks. (EN/ES) (EP/YM/Naster)