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PBBM And Widodo Strengthen PH-Indonesia Bilateral Cooperation
Photo credit PCO
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Indonesian President Joko Widodo agreed on Wednesday to further enhance bilateral cooperation on political, security, and economic matters between the two neighboring nations.

During the Leaders' Statement at the culmination of President Widodo's three-day official visit to the Philippines, President Marcos expressed the shared historical roots and deep cultural ties that bind the two archipelagic states. Acknowledging the successful Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) recently chaired by their foreign ministers, both leaders pledged to continue fostering collaboration in political and security realms.

The JCBC serves as the primary dialogue platform, reviewing accomplishments and exploring mutual interests. The leaders highlighted the progress made in implementing the Philippines-Indonesia Plan of Action 2022-2027, covering a broad spectrum of cooperation, including political and security issues, border concerns, regional and global matters, economic collaboration, sociocultural exchanges, and judicial and consular affairs.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo emphasized the commitment of both nations to elevate bilateral relations, especially in light of the upcoming 75th Anniversary of Philippines-Indonesia Diplomatic Relations.

A milestone of the strengthened ties was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Cooperation in the Field of Energy. President Marcos underscored that this MOU aims to create synergy between the Philippines and Indonesia to ensure energy security. Additionally, a forthcoming MOU on Science and Technology between the two nations is in its final stages of completion.

President Widodo highlighted the importance of reinforcing border cooperation, emphasizing the revision of the Border Patrol Agreement and Border Crossing Agreement, settling Continental Shelf Boundaries, and strengthening defense cooperation, including defense equipment.

Economically, both leaders committed to maintaining open market access to enhance trade. President Widodo sought the Philippines' support for special safeguard measures related to Indonesian coffee products. He also urged the acceleration of the North-South Commuter Railway Project, emphasizing the economic benefits it would bring.

In the realm of regional security, both Presidents agreed on the importance of strengthening ASEAN unity. They emphasized the need for ASEAN to uphold principles of international law, playing a positive role in ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Jan 10, 2024
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