JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – The Indonesian House of Representatives’ Bilateral Cooperation Group (GKSB) recently met with Uzbekistan’s Oliy Majlis in Tashkent from September 11 to 14, 2024. The discussions focused on Indonesia’s new government and enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries.

Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono, Chairman of the GKSB, expressed optimism about Indonesia’s upcoming administration under Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka. He highlighted the new government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. “We believe this administration will focus on equitable economic growth, benefiting all sectors of society, and maintaining a healthy, smart, and prosperous environment for future generations,” Yudhoyono stated.

He thanked the Uzbek Parliament for the opportunity to engage in bilateral talks amid their preparations for upcoming legislative elections. Yudhoyono expressed confidence that the elections would mark a significant step toward greater prosperity for Uzbekistan.

He also underscored the importance of continued, harmonious collaboration between Indonesia and Uzbekistan’s parliaments, aiming for mutual goals of well-being, equality, and sustainability.

He noted that Uzbekistan is a key strategic partner for Indonesia in trade, with its rich natural resources and significant regional leadership contributing to regional stability and development.

Indonesia, with its large population and growing economy, presents a substantial market opportunity, projected to add over 75 million people to the middle class by 2030. This positions Indonesia as a gateway to ASEAN and a crucial player in global trade, supported by numerous trade agreements.

He also emphasized the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation in tourism, transportation, and education.

He supported Uzbekistan’s commitment to democratic governance and parliamentary elections, while also advocating for continued support for the Palestinian cause.

The Indonesian delegation included Vice Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) Putu Supadma Rudana and other GKSB members. The Uzbek delegation was led by Head of the Uzbekistan-Indonesia Friendship Group, Erkin Salikhov, and included key figures such as Deputy Speaker Zukhra Ibragimova. (Uki Ruknuddin)