IKN Authority Head Meets Kazakhstan's President, Promotes Sister-City Collaboration

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Head of Nusantara Capital City Authority, Bambang Susantono became a guest of honor in Kazakhstan's capital city Astana's 25th anniversary on July 5, 2023. The forum was held in Astana's Congress Center. Bambang spoke in the opening panel session inaugurated by the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. 

The forum was participated by several neighboring countries' Capital Governors and Mayors, including Rabat (Morocco), the Federal District of Brazil, Belgrade (Serbia), and Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan).

In his opening remark, President Tokayev provide an update on the development of Astana from a former Provincial Capital of the Soviet Union into a green modern city committed to the Sustainable Development Goals. He saw Astana as not only the heart of Kazakhstan but also crucial to Central Asia with its high gross domestic product. This attracted many investors in several countries.

Bambang Susantono congratulated Astana on its 25th anniversary while simultaneously introducing the IKN development in front of President Tokayev and the distinguished guests. The new capital city of Indonesia is targeted to become the world's first forest city by 2045 which is based on the principle of a smart, green, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable city. 

Alluding to the MoU signed by the Authority Head and Astana's Governor on July 3, 2023, Bambang said that "A collaboration established as a sister city of Nusantara-Astana will hopefully encourage cultural exchange, economical cooperation, and mutual understanding between citizens of the cities."

The Deputy for Green and Digital Transformation of IKN Authority, Professor Mohammed Ali Berawi also participated in the forum. He presented the concept of a smart and sustainable forest city which is to be implemented through Nusantara development, which impressed and drew interest from the forum participants. Kazakhstan's ministry and province officials, big entrepreneurs, and diplomatic corps were also present.

Along with the IKN Authority Head, Indonesia's Ambassador for Kazakhstan, Dr. M. Fadjroel Rachman also present in the forum. According to Fadjroel, the forum was among one of the most special moments for Indonesia and Kazakhstan, the other being the celebration for their 30th bilateral relations.

RACHEL FARAHDIBA REGAR

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