In Bangkok, RI-Thailand Strengthens Bilateral Cooperation Into A Strategic Partnership

JAKARTA - Indonesian Foreign Minister (Menlu) Sugiono together with Thailand's Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa agreed to increase bilateral relations to the strategic partnership level at the 10th Bilateral Cooperation Joint Commission (JCM) meeting in Bangkok, Friday.

"This step reflects our closer bilateral relationship and a common vision to contribute more to the region," said Sugiono quoting Antara.

As a follow-up, it was agreed that in the jointly led JCM (co-chair) by the two foreign ministers, the formation of a joint working group for the preparation of strategic partnership roadmaps and identification of priority sectors for concrete results on further high-level visits.

Meanwhile, in the economic sector, Indonesia and Thailand agreed to expand market access for Indonesian-made products from the agriculture, fisheries and MSME sectors.

The Indonesian Foreign Minister welcomed the interest of Thai investors to collaborate with several Indonesian strategic companies.

He also encouraged the exploration of new cooperation in the field of green energy transition.

In the 10th JCM, the two Foreign Ministers also emphasized their commitment to strengthening cooperation in protecting citizens as well as preventing and enforcing the law on the crime of trafficking in persons (TPPO).

"I appreciate the support from the Thai government in repatriating Indonesian citizens who were victims of TIP. We must continue to strengthen collaboration to eradicate this transnational crime," said Sugiono.

In addition to bilateral issues, Sugiono and Sangiampongsa also exchanged views on regional and global issues, including strengthening ASEAN's role in regional stability and peace in Myanmar as well as the development of the situation in Palestine.

Sugiono views the bilateral meeting on Friday as a new phonation for Indonesia and Thailand relations that are stronger, wider, and strategic.

According to information from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the 10th JCM in Bangkok was held after the 9th JCM in Indonesia in 2018. The meeting was also held to coincide with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Thailand which was held since March 7, 1950.