JAYAPURA – Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi received a working visit from Papua New Guinea Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko in Jayapura City, Papua Province. The bilateral meeting discussed a number of important issues, including cooperation in politics and security.
On the occasion, Retno acknowledged that the two neighboring countries share a very large border area. Thus, cooperation between the two sides is very important to strengthen security amid geopolitical dynamics in the border region.
“Indonesia welcomes the completion of the ratification process of the New Defense Cooperation Agreement by PNG. We look forward to its enactment and its beneficial implementation,” Retno said on the sidelines of the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) meeting.
Still according to Retno, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea also encourage cooperation in the economic field. Where Indonesia welcomes the growth in trade volume which reached 247.6 million dollars in 2023.
“So we both agree that this number can still be increased considering the huge potential we have. Therefore, Indonesia is committed to starting a joint feasibility study on the Preferential Trade Agreement between the countries,” she said.
Retno explained that Indonesia and PNG also discussed development cooperation. She ensured that the cooperation between the two would be realized.
“Third, on development cooperation. Indonesia is committed to working with Pacific countries, including PNG, to strengthen development cooperation. Therefore, we discuss ways to ensure that development cooperation with PNG will be realized in accordance with PNG’s needs,” he added.
Papua New Guinea’s Foreign Minister, Justin Tkatchenko, said that this meeting was a historical landmark that was expected to provide important benefits for both countries.
He also appreciated Indonesia’s support to Papua New Guinea in various fields including health, education, waste management and fire control. “Indonesia is an important friend to Papua New Guinea,” he said.
Plt. Assistant II set Papua, Suzana Wanggai feels proud and honored for the holding of the meeting of the two countries in Jayapura City, Papua. The meeting is expected to have an impact on improving the welfare of the people of Bumi Cenderawasih.
It is known, the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) meeting is an annual bilateral meeting event. This year 2024 is hosted by Papua New Guinea and the implementation takes place in Jayapura City, Papua Province.
