NATIONAL NEWS - South Africa and Indonesia have affirmed a shared commitment on the need to bolster trade between the two countries in order to drive mutual inclusive economic growth.
This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who addressed media at a joint press briefing following bilateral talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during his State Visit to Indonesia.
Indonesia is South Africa’s third largest trading partner in the Southeast Asia region, with South African exports to that country standing at R10.5 billion and Indonesian imports amounting to R16.9 billion.
“During our discussions, we affirmed the importance of expanding and deepening bilateral relations on both political and economic fronts through existing bilateral mechanisms.
“We agreed on the need to increase trade between our two countries as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth. We spoke of the importance of building more resilient and diversified economies for the benefit of the peoples of both countries, as we face similar geopolitical headwinds,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa was accompanied by the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga; Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau; Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes.
A South African business delegation was also in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, and took part in the South Africa-Indonesia Business Forum “with a view to building new commercial partnerships between our two countries”.
World stage
Discussions also turned to global issues, as both countries are part of organisations including BRICS, the G20 and the Non-Aligned Movement.
“We affirmed the need to strengthen the multilateral system and the peaceful resolution of conflict through dialogue.
“We exchanged views on efforts to end the conflict in Gaza and to secure a just and lasting peace that realises the aspirations of the Palestinian people for self-determination,” he said.
Beautiful Indonesia. Photo: Unsplash
President Ramaphosa noted that South Africa – as President of the G20 – is “looking forward” to hosting President Subianto during the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit to be held in Johannesburg in November.
“Through our G20 Presidency, we have focused on the measures we should all take together to create an environment of inclusive growth, reduced inequality and sustainable development, especially in the Global South and on the African continent,” he noted.
Furthermore, an invitation has been extended for the Indonesian leader to embark on a State Visit to South Africa at a “mutually agreed date”.
“Indonesia and South Africa share bonds of great historical significance.
“It is clear from our engagements today that we also share a common future, of progress, development and prosperity for all,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
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