Jakarta, IO – Indonesia and New Zealand affirmed their commitment to establishing strong ties between the two countries while increasing cooperation in various fields. This was stated by Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi when she received a visit from New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister-cum-Foreign Minister Winston Peters on Thursday (14/3).
“We are committed to building robust bilateral relations and we have also tried to foster relationship based on mutual respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty,” said Retno.
One aspect of the agreement is trade. To this end, Indonesia will strive to improve the quality of its agricultural products to meet biosecurity standards set by New Zealand. Both countries also agreed to form mutual recognition in the trade of halal products.
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“Indonesia (also) has the same views as New Zealand regarding challenges such as natural disasters, climate change and women’s empowerment,” she explained.
The ministers also discussed regional and international issues including efforts to strengthen collaboration and maintain peace in the Pacific region. In this respect, Indonesia and New Zealand share an understanding of the vital role of international organizations, especially the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) and the Pacific Island Forum (PIF). (bp)