Indonesia and Papua New Guinea have signed a MoU focused on promoting parliamentary cooperation, enhancing political dialogue between their legislative bodies. The agreement addresses key issues such as economic collaboration and border management, reflecting Indonesia’s commitment to a balanced approach in its diplomatic relations in the Pacific region. DPR leadership expressed readiness for ongoing cooperation despite the upcoming transition in Indonesian governance, with plans for continued support from Papua New Guinea’s parliament towards Indonesia’s new government.
Indonesia and Papua New Guinea have formalized their commitment to parliamentary cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement, signed during a meeting at the Parliamentary Complex in Jakarta, aims to facilitate political dialogue between the two nations’ legislative bodies. Dhany Maharani, who addressed the media following discussions with Speaker of the Papua New Guinea National Parliament, Patrick P. Pomat, underscored the significance of this cooperation in addressing shared concerns such as economic collaboration and border management. It is vital, she stated, to sustain a positive and conducive relationship between the neighboring nations. Maharani further acknowledged the consistent efforts of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) to uphold amicable ties with Papua New Guinea, recognizing its status as a key partner for Indonesia in the Pacific region. She highlighted that this meeting exemplifies Indonesia’s balanced diplomatic stance, focusing equally on regional relations rather than major power rivalries. Despite being at the tail end of the 2019-2024 legislative period, the DPR displayed readiness to engage with Papua New Guinea’s parliament to finalize the MoU. Maharani also conveyed the commitment of both parliaments to preserve their essential bonds, even amid transitions within Indonesia’s legislative leadership. Pomat expressed his parliament’s support for Indonesia’s incoming leadership under President-elect Prabowo Subianto, who assumes office on October 20, 2024. DPR Deputy Speaker for Political and Security Affairs, Lodewijk F. Paulus, along with Deputy Speaker of DPR’s Commission, Utut Adianto, attended the diplomatic meeting.
The recent MoU between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea represents a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in the context of parliamentary cooperation. Both nations acknowledge the importance of discussing mutual issues such as economic initiatives and border management, given their geographical proximity and shared interests in ensuring stability and prosperity in the region. Indonesia considers Papua New Guinea a valuable ally in the Pacific, fostering diplomatic relations through initiatives like the MoU, which can bolster regional security and collaborative efforts in governance.
The MoU signed between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea underscores a shared commitment to fostering constructive dialogue and cooperation between their parliamentary systems. It signals Indonesia’s continued diplomatic strategy of nurturing relationships with neighboring states in the Pacific, while encouraging collaboration on issues of mutual interest. With the commitment to support the incoming administration of President-elect Prabowo Subianto, the foundations for future collaboration between these nations have been firmly established.
Original Source: en.antaranews.com
