Jokowi, U.S. Secretary Antony Blinken Discuss Vaccine, Investment

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo met with United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken at Merdeka Palace, Monday, December 13.

According to Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi, President Jokowi talked of Indonesia's G20 presidency. “Indonesia hopes that the U.S. can be one of its economic partners, including in the investment sector,” said Retno in her statement after accompanying the President in the meeting.

Retno said Indonesia also hoped to be a part of the global supply chain for the health sector. “Indonesia appreciates the U.S. support for the vaccine and others given to the country during this pandemic,” she added.

The meeting taking place at Merdeka Palace was warm and open. “It’s clear that the U.S. is committed to strengthening its partnership with Indonesia, including in the economic sector,” Retno said.

Blinken also expressed his commitment to partner with Indonesia in the area of infrastructure investment. Retno said that the U.S. is a good partner of Indonesia. Indonesia would continue to develop strategic trust with all countries and partners.

“Strategic trust is very important as a foundation for forging mutually beneficial and respectful cooperation. Strategic trust is also needed to build a peaceful and prosperous world, and Indonesia has a strong commitment to contribute to creating a peaceful, stable, and prosperous world,” said Retno Marsudi.

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