In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone conversation with Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Monday. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation across various sectors, with a particular focus on the Belt and Road Initiative and the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway.
President Xi emphasized China's willingness to work closely with Indonesia to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. He highlighted the importance of ensuring the sustainable operation of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway, a landmark project symbolizing the deepening ties between the two nations. \"China is ready to create more highlights of cooperation to better benefit the people of both countries,\" Xi stated.
Reflecting on their shared history, Xi noted that over Widodo's ten-year tenure as Indonesian president, the two leaders have met twelve times, with Widodo visiting China eight times. These interactions have paved the way for a new chapter in building a China-Indonesia community with a shared future and establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Xi expressed high appreciation for President Widodo's contributions to fostering China-Indonesia friendship. He conveyed confidence that the incoming Indonesian government would continue its amicable policies towards China, further elevating their collaborative efforts.
The conversation also touched upon the upcoming 70th anniversary of the Bandung Conference. President Xi proposed that China and Indonesia jointly carry forward the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and the Bandung Spirit. He urged for strengthened solidarity among Global South countries to safeguard the common interests of developing nations and promote regional and global development, prosperity, and stability.
President Widodo, in his remarks, reciprocated the sentiments. He reminisced about the deep friendship forged with President Xi over the past decade, leading to significant achievements in their comprehensive strategic partnership. Widodo expressed gratitude for China's contributions to Indonesia's economic development, citing the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway as a model of Belt and Road cooperation.
Looking ahead, President Widodo voiced confidence that under the leadership of Indonesia's new government, the Indonesia-China relationship would continue its robust momentum. He underscored the importance of maintaining strong growth in their collaborative endeavors.
The dialogue between the two leaders signifies a continued commitment to fostering closer ties and collaborative development, setting a positive trajectory for future cooperation between China and Indonesia.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
