Border Cooperation Must Benefit Local Communities
The Head of the National Border Management Agency (BNPP RI) and Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, has highlighted the importance of strengthening communication with diplomatic partners in border regions. Tito stated that cooperation between parties must be directed towards resolving issues peacefully. Furthermore, such cooperation must provide tangible benefits to the communities of both nations.
“We also discussed how to ensure that the relationship between Indonesia and neighbouring countries, particularly in border areas, can continue to be developed together for the benefit of the people in both countries,” Tito said during the Indonesia Border Partnership Coffee Morning in Jakarta (16/9).
Tito noted that the forum served as a momentum to further introduce the functions and roles of the BNPP RI to friendly nations. The forum was attended by several diplomatic representatives. He reported that representatives from neighbouring countries welcomed the strengthening of partnerships across various sectors, including trade and culture. According to Tito, this positive response serves as capital for building closer relationships in border regions.
“I am very pleased because all representatives of friendly nations welcomed and were willing to strengthen partnership relations, whether in trade, culture, or other fields, for the mutual welfare of the people and the progress of countries in border areas,” said Tito.
The Ambassador of Timor-Leste, Roberto Sarmento de Oliveira Soares, described the forum as a space for dialogue that strengthens neighbourhood relations. He stated that Timor-Leste is committed to continuing cooperation with Indonesia, including human resource development.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity as Minister Tito Karnavian has facilitated a warm, open, and very profound dialogue among neighbouring countries,” said Roberto.
The Australian Border Force Adviser for Indonesia, Ian Kelly, described the forum as an opportunity to fortify cooperation between the two nations. He assessed that the partnership between Indonesia and Australia can continue to be developed, including to maintain regional stability and meet the needs of the community.