Pernyataan Pers Bersama Presiden Joko Widodo Dan Pm Lee Hsien Loong, Singapura, 16 Maret 2023

Introduction

Welcome, President Jokowi and delegation, to Singapore for our sixth leaders' retreat together. Since our last retreat in Bintan, significant developments have taken place in both our countries. The COVID situation has stabilized, cross-border travel has resumed, and Indonesia has achieved significant success, including its G20 presidency and the creation of the pandemic fund.

Our bilateral relationship has also made great progress, with the ratification of three important agreements addressing long-standing issues between Singapore and Indonesia. These agreements have brought lasting benefits to both sides and signify the strength of our relations.

Expanding Cooperation: Digital Economy

During our discussions, President Jokowi and I explored new areas of cooperation, starting with the digital economy. Today, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the Tech X program, which will facilitate work exchanges and knowledge sharing between young tech professionals from Singapore and Indonesia. This collaboration will not only strengthen ASEAN's tech sector but also work towards a digital economy framework agreement under Indonesia's ASEAN chairmanship.

Embracing Sustainability: Renewable Energy and Infrastructure

Sustainability was another key area of focus in our discussions. We signed an MOU on renewable energy cooperation, supporting the development of renewable energy capabilities and cross-border electricity trading. This partnership will enhance energy infrastructure, transition, and security for both Singapore and Indonesia, aligning with regional initiatives like the ASEAN power grid.

Infrastructure development also took center stage, with the signing of an MOU on sustainable urban and housing development. This agreement will encourage the development of smart and sustainable infrastructure projects, including the Nusantara Capital City. Singapore is committed to supporting President Jokowi's vision for a green and smart Nusantara, contributing to knowledge sharing and research activities.

Investing in Human Capital Development

President Jokowi and I both recognize the importance of investing in human capital development. Last year, we launched the Human Capital Partnership arrangement, formalizing cooperation in nurturing talent. Initiatives such as the Youth Mobility Program for university students and the MOU on Technical and Vocational Education and Training further enhance our collaboration in this area. The aim is to create more interactions between our students, educators, civil servants, and regional leaders.

Deepening Traditional Cooperation: Defense, Health, and Finance

In addition to exploring new avenues of collaboration, Singapore and Indonesia have deepened cooperation in traditional areas. Our defense ministries reaffirmed our strong bilateral defense ties through the Indonesia-Singapore Joint Update on Defense Cooperation. In health cooperation, our MOU promotes the exchange of information, knowledge, data, and technology in the health sector. Our bilateral financial agreement with our central banks has also been extended, ensuring monetary and financial stability in a volatile economic world.

Furthermore, our businesses are strengthening commercial linkages, driven by mous covering digital economy and healthcare cooperation. These initiatives are key components of our deep multi-layered and comprehensive partnership.

Regional Engagement and Support

President Jokowi and I discussed regional developments, with Singapore expressing its full support for Indonesia's ASEAN chairmanship and its priorities as ASEAN Chair. We also expressed our regret over the lack of progress in ASEAN's Five-Point Consensus on Myanmar and pledged to work with ASEAN members and partners to achieve its full implementation. Additionally, we will assist Timor-Leste in preparing for its ASEAN membership.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Singapore and Indonesia are entering a new era of cooperation. We have resolved long-standing issues and are ready to explore fresh areas of collaboration that are deep, forward-looking, and mutually beneficial. By focusing on digital economy, sustainability, human capital development, and traditional cooperation, we will make a difference for future generations.

I would like to express my gratitude to President Jokowi for his leadership and contributions to the strong relations between our two countries. Thank you.