Indonesia and South Korea Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation in Various Fields

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and President Yoon Suk Yeol of the Republic of Korea (photo: BPMI Setpres/Laily Rachev)
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In a significant display of diplomatic engagement and mutual cooperation, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and President Yoon Suk Yeol of the Republic of Korea (South Korea) have underscored the importance of bilateral collaboration across a wide range of sectors, spanning from the promising realm of electric vehicles (EVs) to the ambitious Indonesian Capital City (IKN) project.

According to an official statement issued by the Presidential Secretariat’s Press, Media, and Information Bureau on the momentous occasion of Sunday (21/5/2023), the much-anticipated meeting between President Joko Widodo and President Yoon Suk Yeol unfolded within the elegant confines of the prestigious Grand Prince Hotel, nestled in the historic city of Hiroshima, Japan.

During this pivotal rendezvous, the two esteemed leaders passionately deliberated on the multifaceted aspects of cooperation between Indonesia and South Korea, exemplifying their shared commitment to fostering deeper ties and exploring mutually beneficial opportunities.

President Jokowi, with unwavering determination, reiterated the vital significance of trade cooperation between the two nations, particularly through the lens of the Indonesia-Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IK-CEPA).

Stressing the utmost importance of its implementation, he emphasized the inclusive support for the 18 commendable project proposals put forth by Indonesia, encompassing diverse sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, culture, fisheries, automotive, and information technology.

The President further accentuated the realm of investment cooperation, seeking President Yoon’s indispensable support in facilitating the realization of committed investments from esteemed South Korean companies operating within the Indonesian economic landscape.

By encouraging a conducive environment for foreign investment, Indonesia aims to fortify its position as an attractive investment destination while simultaneously fostering economic growth and employment opportunities.

The momentous discussion also veered towards the visionary endeavor of establishing the Indonesian Capital City (IKN) as a symbol of progress and prosperity. President Jokowi passionately communicated the nation’s resolute commitment to providing attractive incentives and investment facilities to both domestic and international investors, signaling the government’s unwavering dedication to this monumental project.

Additionally, the President expressed his sincere hope for the seamless development and successful operation of the water treatment system within the IKN, an essential component bolstered by South Korean support and expertise.

The dialogue between these two leaders of great nations seamlessly extended to the realm of labor cooperation. President Jokowi, recognizing the crucial contributions of Indonesian migrant workers in South Korea, beseeched President Yoon to consider increasing the quota for migrant workers and expanding the array of available job fields, thereby creating more opportunities for Indonesian laborers to contribute their skills and expertise.

Furthermore, the President earnestly invited South Korea’s participation in the establishment and development of comprehensive training centers for Indonesian migrant workers, ensuring their seamless integration into the Korean labor market and enhancing their overall welfare.

The intricate web of discussions and the shared aspirations of President Jokowi and President Yoon have set the stage for a new era of robust collaboration between Indonesia and South Korea.

By nurturing an environment of fruitful partnership, these leaders are poised to drive sustainable economic growth, technological advancements, and social development, creating a thriving future for both nations and fortifying their position on the global stage.