WNAM REPORT: Indonesian President Joko Widodo highlighted four crucial points that he believes will contribute to the actualization of fairer and more inclusive global development, with special emphasis placed on the well-being of developing countries.
“We need new directions, new visions, and new tactical steps to realize fairer and more inclusive development for developing states. Hence, I hereby stress four points,” he remarked in a video broadcast by his secretariat’s YouTube channel, which was accessed from here.
In his speech for the opening of the 2nd Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) and the High-Level Forum for Multi-Stakeholder Partnership (HLF MSP) in Badung, Bali, on Monday, he stated that among the points is consistency in pursuing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Jokowi affirmed that efforts directed at SDGs require cross-sector collaboration and the need to be aligned to national and regional development priorities, including the Agenda 2063 of Africa.
Speaking in connection with the second point, the president reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to taking an active part in finding global solutions, fighting for the interests of Global South nations, and bridging the world to achieve SDGs.
“Indonesia has been staying true to this commitment ever since the Asian-African Conference held 69 years ago,” he stated.
Outlining the third point, the Indonesian head of state underscored that his country is always open to partnering with all, especially African nations, to support global development agendas.
He spoke highly of the Indonesia-Africa partnership, saying that it has resulted in the establishment and implementation of a range of trade agreements, which have led to an increase in trade volume between Indonesia and its African counterparts.
The president then elaborated on the final point by underlining the need to reignite global solidarity to boost South-South and North-South cooperation. He affirmed that working hand in hand is the key to braving common challenges.
He also announced that Indonesia is planning to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Asia-Africa Conference by holding the Platinum Jubilee of the Asian-African Conference next year.
The 2nd IAF, themed ” Bandung Spirit for Africa’s Agenda 2063,” is being held in Bali on September 1-3 in conjunction with the 2024 HLF MSP that adopts “Strengthening Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships: Towards a Transformative Change” as its theme.
The two international events are expected to tighten diplomatic relations and pave the way for new opportunities for mutually beneficial exchanges of knowledge and investment.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs estimates that the 2nd IAF will drive Indonesia and African countries to reach cooperation agreements, with a total value of US$3.5 billion (approximately Rp53.9 trillion).
The figures signify a notable increase from the US$586.56 million (approximately Rp9.04 trillion) clocked at the forum’s first edition in 2018.
