Moeldoko Hopes Indonesia-Australia Cooperation Continues To Increase, In What Fields?

Jakarta - Presidential Chief of Staff Dr. Moeldoko emphasized that Indonesia continues to be committed to strengthening bilateral relations with Australia in various sectors, especially through socio-cultural, economic and trade approaches as well as food security.

This was conveyed by Moeldoko when receiving a visit from the Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Penny Williams, at the Bina Graha Building, Jakarta, Thursday, July 21.

“Indonesia really appreciates the visit of Prime Minister Albanese to Indonesia some time ago. We certainly hope that relations between the two countries can continue to improve," said Moeldoko.

“Political dynamics in both countries are normal, leadership changes and so on. But the axis must not change, the two countries must still improve bilateral relations, especially through strengthening people-to-people relations both through business and culture," he added.

Previously on June 5-7, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Indonesia and met with President Joko Widodo to discuss bilateral relations between the two countries. The visit marked Albanese's first bilateral visit since being sworn in as Prime Minister of Australia on 23 May. This indicates the importance of Indonesia's position for Australia.

Australia is an important partner for Indonesia in various fields, including health and food security issues. Australia is committed to working with Indonesia to tackle the mouth and foot disease (FMD) epidemic that has hit cattle, buffalo and goats in Indonesia.

Meanwhile, on the issue of food security, Moeldoko invited Australia to cooperate with Indonesia to develop the sorghum food industry.

“In the midst of the threat of a global food crisis, Indonesia has started to try to develop several alternative foods, one of which is sorghum in NTT. It would be great if Australia had experience in this matter and could develop sorghum with Indonesia,” said Moeldoko.

The Retired General's offer was not without reason. Parts of northern Australia, for example in the city of Darwin, have similar geographical and climatic conditions with the NTT region in Indonesia. Thus enabling the sorghum grain crop to be developed together.

“I understand that Indonesia is looking for alternative food sources or sees opportunities to expand its commodities. I will of course tell them [to the expert community and industry in Australia] about sorghum,” Ambassador Penny Williams responded.

The Ambassador also emphasized that the Australian government continues to strive to improve bilateral relations with Indonesia, one of which is shown by PM Albanese's commitment to attend the G20 Summit in November, despite the global political crisis due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

"PM Albanese is committed to attending the G20 Summit because he has conveyed it directly to President Joko Widodo," said Penny.