Introductory Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia during Limited Cabinet Meeting on Mpox Handling and Readiness of Indonesia-Africa Forum at Bali, the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Special Capital Region of Jakarta, August 27, 2024

Good morning,

Assalamu’alaikum warhamatullahi wabarakatuh,

As we may be aware of, the Indonesia-Africa Forum, which will be held on 1-3 September [2024], is just around the corner. 51 countries are invited to the forum, 28 of which are from the African region. It is estimated that approximately 1,500 participants will attend.

First, I would like an update on the implementation’s readiness, the number of heads of state and government who will attend, and matters related to hotels and accommodation.

Second, I want to ensure that there are real results from the implementation of the Indonesia-Africa Forum in Bali.

Third, I also urge you to be very careful and vigilant regarding the spread of Mpox. From what I have read, the Mpox outbreak has increased significantly in Congo and the WHO has declared Mpox for the second time as a public health emergency of international concern. So I ask that we provide preventive efforts, especially for the African delegates.

Fourth, Ministry of Health and other related ministries/institutions should conduct surveillance immediately, not only in Bali but also at other international arrival entry points. Please take the necessary preventive measures as soon as possible since we can refer to the experience of handling the COVID-19 pandemic. So, I want a health protocol to be created and disseminated immediately.

That concludes my remarks.

The Coordinating Minister, the floor is yours.

(GWH/EP)