Indonesia and Philippines Strengthen Strategic Cooperation
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia and the Philippines have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in various strategic sectors such as economy, politics and security, and international issues.
“In terms of economic cooperation, we have agreed to strengthen collaboration, including the settlement of local currencies and a stronger QR payment system,” said Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono in a joint press statement with Philippine Foreign Minister Theresa Lazaro in Jakarta on Thursday.
Indonesia and the Philippines will also strengthen connectivity between Indonesian and Philippine border cities, such as Manado, Bitung, Davao, and General Santos.
Sugiono stated that Indonesia welcomes the progress in critical mineral partnerships, including the Nickel Alliance, to build a resilient global supply chain.
Regarding politics and security, Indonesia and the Philippines agreed to strengthen maritime cooperation, enhance border management, and accelerate discussions on determining the continental shelf boundary based on international law.
“We also agreed to strengthen defence industry cooperation, including through the procurement of Indonesian-made defence equipment. In terms of consular affairs, we welcome the progress in resolving issues concerning people of Indonesian descent and people of Philippine descent,” said Sugiono.
Additionally, Sugiono said that Indonesia and the Philippines exchanged views on regional and global issues, reaffirming the importance of peace and stability in the South China Sea through full respect for international law, particularly UNCLOS 1982.
Indonesia and the Philippines also emphasised the importance of an inclusive political process in Myanmar to support long-term peace, regional stability, and humanitarian assistance, said Sugiono.
Regarding the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, Indonesia and the Philippines believe that the current ceasefire is an important step to prevent broader escalation.
The Indonesian Foreign Minister emphasised that stability in the Gulf region is crucial because any disruption would affect security, energy, supply chains, and economic resilience in the ASEAN and Asia regions.
“At the same time, we believe that lasting peace and stability in the Middle East cannot be achieved without justice for Palestine as well, and we both believe that the two-state solution is the only solution to this problem,” Sugiono stated.