22-4-2024 (SINGAPORE) In a move that underscores the close friendship and cooperation between Singapore and Indonesia, Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan will embark on a working visit to Jakarta from April 23 to April 26, as announced by Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) on Monday (Apr 22).
According to the ministry’s statement, Dr. Balakrishnan’s visit “reflects the shared desire to further strengthen cooperation” between the two neighboring countries, which have enjoyed a long-standing and robust bilateral relationship over the years.
During his visit, the Foreign Minister will call on Indonesian President Joko Widodo and be hosted by his counterpart, Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. This high-level engagement is expected to provide an opportunity for both nations to discuss areas of mutual interest and explore avenues for enhancing cooperation across various sectors.
In addition to his meetings with the Indonesian leadership, Dr. Balakrishnan will also have the opportunity to meet with Indonesian President-elect and Minister of Defence Prabowo Subianto. Mr. Prabowo, who won the February 14 election with nearly 60 percent of the votes according to the country’s election body’s official tally, is expected to assume the presidency in October.
The Foreign Minister’s itinerary also includes meetings with other key Indonesian officials, such as Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno, and Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono. These interactions will allow for discussions on a wide range of topics, including economic cooperation, tourism, and land management.
Furthermore, Dr. Balakrishnan will pay courtesy calls on former Indonesian presidents Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Megawati Soekarnoputri, further emphasizing the importance Singapore places on maintaining strong ties with Indonesia’s political leadership, both past and present.
The Foreign Minister will be accompanied by officials from the MFA during his visit, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the bilateral engagement between the two countries.
