Rumania and RI eye cooperation

JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto and Rumanian President Emil Constantinescu held bilateral talks yesterday morning aimed at strengthening economic and political ties.

In their 90-minute talks the two leaders underlined the importance of private sector participation, and exchange visits by officials in strengthening economic bonds.

Accompanied by their ministers, the two leaders also briefed each other their domestic affairs.

Constantinescu was accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Adrian Severin, Minister for Reform Ulm Spineanu and Minister of Finance Mircea Ciumara.

Soeharto was accompanied by Minister/State Secretary Moerdiono, Minister of Finance Mar'ie Muhammad and Minister of Defense and Security Edi Sudradjat, who is acting foreign minister while Ali Alatas is abroad.

Moerdiono quoted Soeharto as saying yesterday the two countries need to get to know each other better. Both agreed to expand trade further.

"Rumania regards Indonesia as an important potential trading partner in the region," Moerdiono said.

On his arrival here Thursday, Constantinescu emphasized the importance of forging closer ties with Indonesia and described Asia-Pacific countries as key players in the world economy in the coming years.

Rumania's exports to Indonesia from January to April stood at US$17.7 million, while its imports totaled $5.6 million.

Yesterday evening Soeharto held a state banquet at State Palace in Constantinescu's honor.

In his address Soeharto praised Rumania's recent transformation into a modern and market-oriented economic country.

"We closely watch the encouraging progress achieved by the Rumanian people and government, especially in politics, social and economic fields," Soeharto said.

He said national and regional stability have been key factors in creating a conducive climate for Indonesia's development.

"Our success in maintaining dynamic domestic and regional stability has contributed significantly to our successful national development," he said.

Soeharto said it was important to establish not only good bilateral but also regional links.

For Indonesia, Europe is one of the most important trading partners and the country would welcome any efforts to boost trade and economic relations between the two regions, Soeharto said.

"A strong partnership between Europe and Asia will eventually benefit our national economy," he said.

Constantinescu flies to Yogyakarta this morning enroute for a brief stopover in Bali before flying directly back to Rumania this evening. (06)