Indonesia and Papua New Guinea have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance parliamentary cooperation. This agreement aims to promote dialogue and collaboration on issues such as economic and border cooperation. Both nations are committed to maintaining their relationships despite upcoming political transitions.
Indonesia and Papua New Guinea have formalized their intent to enhance collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on parliamentary cooperation. Following a meeting at the Parliamentary Complex in Jakarta, Indonesian Parliament Speaker Puan Maharani emphasized that the agreement is a pivotal instrument for fostering political dialogue between the two nations’ legislative bodies. “This way, the two countries will be able to discuss common issues, such as parliamentary cooperation, economic cooperation, and border cooperation,” she stated, underscoring the significance of sustaining a positive relationship between the two countries. Maharani acknowledged that the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has consistently maintained productive ties with Papua New Guinea, recognizing it as a crucial partner in the Pacific region. She remarked that this meeting illustrates Indonesia’s even-handed diplomatic strategy, which prioritizes relationships with its neighbors in the east over the competition among major powers. Despite being in the concluding phase of its 2019-2024 term, the DPR remains enthusiastic about engaging with the Papua New Guinean parliament speaker for the MoU signing. Maharani assured that both parliaments are dedicated to continuing their well-established rapport post-transition in the DPR. She also referenced the Papua New Guinean parliament speaker, Pomat, who expressed that the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea will extend its support to the upcoming Indonesian government led by President-elect Prabowo Subianto, taking office on October 20, 2024. Deputy Speaker for Political and Security Affairs Lodewijk F. Paulus, alongside Deputy Speaker of DPR’s Commission Utut Adianto, accompanied Maharani during this bilateral engagement.
The signing of the MoU on parliamentary cooperation marks an important step in enhancing bilateral relations between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. Both countries share geographical proximity and a history of engagement, thus making cooperation crucial for addressing mutual interests such as economic development, cross-border issues, and legislative dialogue. The agreement aims to solidify these ties and establish frameworks for regular communication and collaboration, especially in light of political transitions poised to occur within both nations.
The recent MoU signed between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea signifies a mutual commitment to strengthening parliamentary collaboration and dialogue. It reflects a proactive approach to regional diplomacy and highlights both countries’ dedication to fostering economic and border cooperation. As they prepare for leadership transitions, the ongoing cooperation is likely to play a pivotal role in maintaining stability and harmony in the Pacific region.
Original Source: en.antaranews.com
