Jokowi and India's PM Discuss Investment Opportunities

Liputan6.com, Nay Pyi Taw The 25^th ASEAN Summit in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar has allowed President Joko Widodo to strengthen Indonesia’s bilateral relationship with a number of countries. Jokowi used the opportunity by setting up a bilateral meeting with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On that occasion, Jokowi offered investment opportunities particularly in the field of coal and defence equipment/materials.

 “Indonesia- India trade and investment tie has always been strong and there are many of it that we need to maintain and improve. We need to improve our trading industry to India and likewise, we are hoping India would do the same in return”, explained Jokowi.

Jokowi states he only went to discuss the prospect of coal industry and defence materials. As his time was limited due to a strictly managed agenda, discussions for cooperation in other fields have to be put on hold until both individuals agree to set up another meeting. Jokowi claimed there is no particular cooperation in the maritime sector, but realized that there should be mutual agreement assuring each other’s security to prevent possible future conflict.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi also took the opportunity to congratulate the recently elected President Joko Widodo as he became the 7^th Indonesian President, replacing his predecessor Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. 

“I have previously congratulated President Joko Widodo in writing. It is an honour for me to be able to convey it directly to him right now”, said Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed he shares so much in common to Jokowi. One of them is their strong relationship and influence with the media.

“Both of us are particularly close to the media. We bring such a great impact to it”, Shared Modi during the meeting.

The meeting between the two public figures was part of the agenda in the midst of ASEAN Summit which this year is themed “Moving Forward in Unity To A Peaceful and Prosperous Community”. President Joko Widodo’s appearance at the ASEAN Summit as well as APEC Summit earlier in Beijing, China on November 10-11 2014, is counted as his first successful presentation to the world as the 7^th President of Indonesia.

After attending the ASEAN Summit which was followed by the East Asia Summit in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, President Jokowi is scheduled to attend the next G20 Summit in Brisbane, Australia from 15 to 16 November 2014. (Ein)