Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong successfully wrapped up his inaugural visit to Indonesia today, marking a significant milestone in diplomatic relations between the two nations.
On 6 November 2024, Prime Minister Wong had the honor of being hosted for lunch by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in the bustling capital city of Jakarta. During this pivotal meeting, both leaders reaffirmed the enduring friendship that underpins their nations, alongside a united pledge to strengthen resilience amid a shifting geopolitical landscape. They expressed their anticipation for the upcoming 8th Singapore-Indonesia Leaders’ Retreat, which is set to take place in Singapore in 2025 — a notable event as it will be the first official retreat between the two leaders.
Prime Minister Wong and President Prabowo Subianto commended the remarkable achievements in promoting bilateral cooperation, particularly in the emerging field of the green economy, which is increasingly becoming a priority for both nations. They also discussed strategies for enhancing collaboration in other crucial areas, including human capital development, fostering people-to-people connections, and addressing the pressing issue of food security.
In addition to engaging with President Prabowo, Prime Minister Wong held productive discussions with Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly Ahmad Muzani, and Speaker of the Regional Representative Council Sultan Bachtiar Najamudin. Throughout these meetings, both sides emphasized the excellent state of bilateral relations and reiterated their commitment to fortifying areas of mutual benefit in their ongoing cooperation.
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
6 NOVEMBER 2024
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Lim, Regional Affairs Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Lim. We just received news about Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s inaugural visit to Indonesia and discussions around future collaborations. What are your thoughts on the significance of this visit?
**Dr. Lim:** Thank you for having me! Prime Minister Wong’s visit to Indonesia is incredibly significant. It signifies a deepening of the diplomatic ties between Singapore and Indonesia, which is vital for both nations, especially given the current geopolitical dynamics in the region.
**Editor:** The meeting between Prime Minister Wong and President Prabowo Subianto seems to have focused on friendship and resilience. How do you think this mutual commitment will impact relations moving forward?
**Dr. Lim:** The emphasis on friendship and resilience is crucial. With challenges such as climate change, economic instability, and geopolitical tensions, both countries recognize the need to collaborate closely. By reaffirming their commitment to each other, they are not only solidifying their partnership but also preparing to tackle these challenges together.
**Editor:** They mentioned an upcoming 8th Singapore-Indonesia Leaders’ Retreat in 2025. What can we expect from this event, and how important is it for bilateral relations?
**Dr. Lim:** The Leaders’ Retreat is a platform for both sides to engage more deeply on key issues, share perspectives, and align their agendas. Given that this retreat will be the first official one between the two nations, it’s an opportunity to set a clear agenda for collaboration moving forward. Expect discussions on economic ties, sustainability initiatives, and perhaps even security cooperation.
**Editor:** There have been hints of “new and exciting opportunities” for collaboration. What specific areas do you think could be explored in the future?
**Dr. Lim:** There are several promising areas for collaboration. For instance, both countries can work together in areas like digital technology, green energy, and tourism. Additionally, with Indonesia’s G20 presidency and Singapore’s role as a financial hub, both nations can collaborate on economic development strategies that benefit the entire region.
**Editor:** Lastly, how do you see the broader implications of this visit for ASEAN as a whole?
**Dr. Lim:** This visit has broader implications for ASEAN unity and regional stability. A strong partnership between Singapore and Indonesia can serve as a model for other ASEAN countries, promoting closer ties and cooperation. As ASEAN faces its own set of challenges, collaboration between member states becomes increasingly important, and this is a positive step in that direction.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Lim, for your insights. It seems we have a lot to look forward to as these nations strengthen their ties.
**Dr. Lim:** Absolutely! Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important developments.