REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA - Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno LP Marsudi held a meeting with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi to discuss the enhancement of bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
"We discussed the strengthening and enhancement of bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and China," Marsudi stated on Monday.
She added that the meeting was also organized to promote the international recognition acquired by Indonesia.
"We are glad that a lot of dignitaries from developing countries are visiting Indonesia in the early stages of the government. This is certainly indicates the international recognition garnered by Indonesia," she noted.
Marsudi admitted that the Indonesian government had its agenda structured and prioritized for the next five years, especially with regard with matters related to diplomatic relations and bilateral cooperation with foreign countries.
"If we collaborate with foreign countries, we can focus on them, keeping national interests in mind," she stated.
Moreover, Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi said that he was delighted to meet with Marsudi, who is the first female foreign affairs minister of Indonesia.
He noted, "We want to participate in Indonesia's development. Indonesia is the most important country that falls on the path of the Silk Road of the 21st century."
Wang also affirmed that China and Indonesia had reached an agreement on the subjects of infrastructure, energy and natural resources.
"We also welcome Indonesian investment in China," he remarked.
During the last decade, bilateral relations between the two countries have been positive, strong and progressive. The total value of bilateral trade amounted to 52.45 billion USD in 2013, and China's direct investment in Indonesia hit 296.9 million USD through 411 projects.
Furthermore, as many as 747,291 Chinese tourists visited Indonesia in 2013, and in 2015, Indonesia and China will also celebrate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the countries and the 60th anniversary of the Asian-African Conference.
Ikuti Whatsapp Channel Republika
