Prabowo and Lee Agree to Expand Indonesia-South Korea Comprehensive Partnership
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung agreed to expand the strategic partnership between the two countries into a more comprehensive one during a bilateral meeting at the Presidential Palace Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House) in Seoul, South Korea, on Wednesday.
“I express my hope to enhance the special strategic partnership between Indonesia and South Korea into a more comprehensive partnership,” said President Prabowo Subianto in his opening remarks at the meeting, quoted from the Press, Media, and Information Bureau (BPMI) of the Presidential Secretariat in Jakarta.
The expansion of the partnership between the two countries was marked by the signing of 10 memoranda of understanding for cooperation in various sectors. President Prabowo’s first state visit to South Korea reflects the government’s strong commitment to strengthening relations that have been closely intertwined for decades.
The President regards South Korea as Indonesia’s close friend and has a strong desire to elevate cooperation levels in various fields. Prabowo also emphasised that openness and honesty are the main keys to maintaining constructive relations amid the dynamics of inter-state relations.
In the discussions, Prabowo highlighted the geographical and economic positions of the two countries, which share many similarities. Indonesia and South Korea are seen to have very strong common interests as fellow countries in the Pacific region.
“Both of us are Pacific countries. Both of us are trading nations. We need good relations for the economic welfare of both our countries, and perhaps we have complementary roles,” stated President Prabowo.
Furthermore, the President assessed that South Korea’s rapid progress in industry, science, and technology could synergise with Indonesia’s strengths. Indonesia currently has advantages in abundant natural resources (SDA) and a large market share.
In addition to economic aspects, the two national leaders also discussed the importance of stability and peace amid rising global uncertainties. According to Prabowo, solid inter-state relations like those between Indonesia and South Korea are becoming increasingly crucial in facing a world full of challenges.
“My state visit here takes place amid a world situation full of uncertainties and dangers. Therefore, inter-state relations like those between Indonesia and South Korea are becoming increasingly important,” said the President.
As a follow-up to the agreement, President Prabowo urged ministers from both sides to promptly follow up on the cooperation points. Concrete steps are needed so that the enhancement of this partnership status can soon be felt by the people of both countries.
“Let us ask our ministers to strive to realise this higher role,” said Prabowo.