Indonesian Vice President Ma’ruf Amin extends an invitation to Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to fortify the bilateral relations, emphasizing the robust trade partnership and potential collaborations in various strategic sectors.
During a high-level meeting, Indonesian VP Ma’ruf Amin proposed strengthening the existing robust trade and investment ties with Singapore, underlining the mutual benefits of enhanced cooperation in various sectors.
The VP highlighted Singapore as a key trading and investment partner, noting significant investments and total trade value between the two nations. He stressed the need for deepening relations, especially in the growing sectors of the Sharia economy and halal products.
The health sector was identified as another critical area for collaboration, considering the frequent exchange of healthcare services among the populations of both countries. Future plans include inviting Singaporean investors to contribute to Indonesia’s healthcare infrastructure, particularly in the Special Economic Zone (KEK) in Sanur, Bali.
Educational cooperation, youth empowerment, women’s advancement, and child protection were discussed as new avenues for partnership. The importance of reactivating the Indonesia-Singapore Joint Working Group in Education was underscored.
Tourism, another promising sector, was identified as having potential for growth. The VP highlighted the significance of harmonizing cruise protocols to facilitate travel from Singapore to Indonesia.
Read More: Indonesia’s Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto Honored with Singapore’s Highest Military Award
The meeting concluded with hopes for a sustained and fruitful relationship, emphasizing Singapore as one of the top sources of tourists to Indonesia.
The strengthening of Indonesia-Singapore relations opens up new opportunities for economic, educational, and cultural exchanges. It promises a more connected and collaborative future, benefiting both nations and contributing to regional stability and growth.
Indonesia and Singapore are set to deepen their bilateral ties, focusing on expanding economic collaboration in areas such as the Sharia economy, halal products, healthcare, education, and tourism. This enhanced partnership is expected to yield mutual benefits, including increased investment and cultural exchange, reinforcing the longstanding relationship between these neighboring countries.
Source: Info Publik, Wapres.id (2023)
