TEMPO.CO, Bogor - Indonesian Trade Minister Enggartiasto Lukita said the government continues to increase trading transactions with Laos. Enggar made the statement following a meeting between President Joko `Jokowi` Widodo and Laos Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith at the Bogor Palace, yesterday, Oct. 12.
When meeting President Widodo, PM Sisoulith brought 33 Laos businessmen with him to discuss trade cooperation agreements with Indonesia. Enggar said both nations are interested to develop partnerships in several sectors, including fertilizer plants and gold mines. Laos also plans to buy Indonesian coals on a large scale.
Read: President Jokowi Receives Laos PM at Bogor Palace
In 2016, the trade value between Indonesia and Laos was US$10.071 million. "We will increase our trading volume to above US$10 million," Enggar said.
Jokowi's meeting with Sisoulith resulted in the signing of three MoUs on education, higher education and cooperation in the supervision of narcotics circulation. Sisoulith said both countries will continue to strengthen cooperation in security, trade, economy, and investment.
This is the 60th year of bilateral partnership between Indonesia and Laos. In a joint press conference with Prime Minister Sisoulith, Widodo said the two ASEAN members will "continue to improve cooperation for the prosperity of the people of both countries".
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