JAKARTA: Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sugiono (pic), expressed Indonesia's commitment to strengthening its comprehensive strategic partnership with India during a meeting with Indian Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar, in Kazan, Russia, on Wednesday (Oct 23).
According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, Sugiono emphasised Indonesia's dedication to enhancing the partnership, particularly as the two countries celebrated the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year, reported Antara news agency.
During the meeting, held on the sidelines of the BRICS Plus Summit, Sugiono also advocated for increased collaboration between Indonesia and India in various multilateral forums, alongside discussions on bilateral, regional, and global cooperation.
He highlighted India as a key partner in supporting Indonesia's food security and welcomed India's decision to lift the ban on non-basmati white rice exports.
This decision is seen as an opportunity to boost bilateral trade in rice commodities, further strengthening Indonesia's food security efforts.
In addition to food security, the two ministers exchanged views and explored potential bilateral cooperation in a variety of fields, including the nutritious meals programme, housing, pharmaceuticals, creative industries, defence, and education.
Sugiono also extended an invitation to Jaishankar to attend the upcoming 8th Joint Commission Meeting between Indonesia and India in Jakarta.
The meeting will focus on several priority areas of cooperation, including the economic sector, the defence industry, education, and research and development. - Bernama-Antara
