Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently commended Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals Program initiated by President Prabowo Subianto as a significant step towards enhancing the well-being of Indonesian citizens. During a bilateral meeting at the Merdeka Palace, Albanese praised the program as a tangible example of Indonesia’s commitment to national development. He also highlighted the broader transformation agenda of Indonesia and recognized the hard work and aspirations of the Indonesian people, emphasizing the importance of initiatives like the free nutritious meals program in enhancing the quality of life in the country.
Additionally, Albanese acknowledged Indonesia’s pivotal role in the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing its growing influence in promoting peace, prosperity, and stability. He underscored the strategic significance of Indonesia’s rapid progress not only for the region but also for Australia’s bilateral relations with the nation. The leaders engaged in discussions about strengthening strategic cooperation between Australia and Indonesia, focusing on areas such as defense, trade, investment, and Indonesia’s aspirations to join the OECD and the CPTPP.
Albanese emphasized the foundation of the partnership between Australia and Indonesia on shared values, mutual respect, and a vision for inclusive regional development. He also highlighted the longstanding historical ties between the two countries, dating back to Indonesia’s struggle for independence. Albanese stressed the importance of collaborative efforts between Australians and Indonesians in fostering stability, prosperity, and security in the region they both hold dear.
