President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., met with Indonesian President Joko Widodo during his first state visit on Monday, Sept. 5.
Marcos’ first stop during his three-day state visit is in Indonesia. He is accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.
Marcos and Widodo discussed strengthening links between both countries and seeking support for investments in the country, including agriculture and energy, which is among the top priority sectors under his administration.
“In two years’ time, we are celebrating the 75th year of our diplomatic relations. Although our relations would go much further than that, because we consider Indonesians not only a neighbor, not only a friend, but kin,” Marcos said.
“We continue to thank Indonesia for the assistance and their involvement in the infrastructure programs of my predecessor President Duterte, and their continuing commitment, not only to go on with these programs but to increase the volume and the closeness between our two countries,” he added.
Marcos also emphasized the significance of building strong ties with other neighboring countries.
“I expressed my belief to President Widodo that this partnership between our friends and allies around the world will be of critical importance so that we remain as we grow out of the pandemic economy,” Marcos said.
“[And] we work together, and help each other to develop regional peace, and regional development,” he continued.
The Chief Executive is confident that his visit and discussion with Widodo is “only the beginning of many more things to come between Indonesia, [and] the Philippines.” –Katrina Gracia Consebido/gb
