Jakarta (ANTARA) – Through a letter of intent handed to Congo, Indonesia expressed its interest to explore collaboration with the country in aspects ranging from forestry, mining, and military training, to palm oil plantation.The letter of intent was handed over by Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan during a visit from Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Congo Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo and his entourage on May 11-13, 2023. “Bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and Congo is expected to benefit both countries, particularly in economic development and security aspects. We hope that this collaboration can establish Indonesia’s position as strategic partner of the Republic of Congo, and the two countries support each other in meeting the common target,” Minister Pandjaitan noted in a statement received here on Tuesday. The minister highlighted the country’s intent to forge collaborative efforts with Congo and Brazil in a bid to address climate change by reducing the deforestation rate and improving carbon absorption capacity that could be achieved through forestry coalition. He also affirmed that Indonesia would conduct knowledge transfer for Congo in order to improve the country’s operational capability in the mining sector. Moreover, the National Defense Forces will improve Congo’s military capability, and Pindad, a national military products manufacturer, will supply military products, such as uniform, arms, and armored vehicles, to Congo, he noted. Pandjaitan also highlighted Indonesia’s interest in pursuing collaboration in developing sustainable palm plantation in Congo. Moreover, they would supply finished products and raw materials to Congo until it has its own factory, he revealed. He also said that Congo would establish its embassy in Indonesia, and Indonesia would also build its embassy in Congo, both as initiatives to improve their bilateral relations. Related news: President Jokowi sees off Indonesian peacekeeping force to Congo, Lebanon

Source: Antara News Agency