PM: Jakarta a success

 By MALUM NALU

PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill has described as “very successful” his  visit to Indonesia this week.

“It was very important that we took up the invitation extended to us by the Indonesian president,” he told reporters at a press conference back in Port Moresby yesterday.

 “All in all, the visit was very successful.

“There were a number of agreements and memorandums of understanding that were signed between the two countries. 

“We agreed to a comprehensive partnership.

“We will strengthen our relationship with Indonesia, similar to the one that we enjoy with Australia.”

O’Neill said the Indonesian population was the fourth largest in the world and PNG should take advantage of that. 

The opportunities were immeasureable, he added. 

“Indonesia’s economy is now growing at about 6%, with a population of 250 million, the fourth largest population in the world,” he said.

“It’s right next to our doorstep.

“That has huge potential for our economy and PNG should take full advantage of it. 

“That is why we took a very large delegation of businessmen and women and representatives of the chamber of of commerce.

“They were able to engage with the business community of Indonesia.

“We expect good outcomes as a result of the meetings.

“Indonesia is our biggest neighbour and the only country we share a land border with.

“It is important that we engage with them in a meaningful way.”

While in Indonesia, the prime minister and his delegation initialled 11 landmark agreements.

“It  paved the way for the first time for criminals, fugitives or wanted people from each country to be extradited on request by the other through an extradition treaty.

The Prime Minister and his entourage returned home on Wednesday.