Indonesia and China Discuss Blue Economy and Maritime Cooperation in Beijing Meeting

Prabowo and Xi: Diving into the Blue Economy and Sea Walls

Well, folks, grab your snorkels and put on your best ship captain’s hat because it seems President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia and President Xi Jinping of China have taken a deep dive into topics that are as vast as the oceans themselves! During their recent meeting in the bustling capital of Beijing on November 9, they chatted about everything from the blue economy to the ambitious construction of giant sea walls. That’s right; we might be witnessing the original blueprint for the latest “Underwater World Adventure.” Who needs Disney when you have this level of oceanic engineering?!

The Blue Economy and Sea Walls: A Splash of Genius?

Now, it’s worth noting that Airlangga Hartarto, Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, was practically glowing with excitement. He reported that both leaders focused on vital maritime issues, energy, and fisheries during their tête-à-tête. Who knew discussing sea walls could make someone so giddy?

And it doesn’t stop there! Prabowo is apparently set on building what he calls “the great sea walls” north of Java. Because why just build a wall when you can build a GREAT one? The plan has reportedly been met with Xi’s enthusiastic nod, suggesting that between them, they could be crafting a literal and figurative barrier against climate change and… well, unsuspecting fishermen with questionable fishing techniques.

Giant Sea Walls and High-Speed Trains

But hold your horses (or rather, your ships) because that’s not all they discussed. The pair also took time to bask in the afterglow of the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train project, which we can only assume is moving faster than public opinion on climate change. It’s like these two are trying to set a speed record in more ways than one—fast trains, giant walls; they might as well be building a theme park while they’re at it!

Economics or Just a Bit of Tug-of-War?

Hartarto also mentioned that discussions meandered into local currency settlements and the “Two Countries Twin Parks” initiative. Yes, that’s right—twin parks! I’m picturing a cute setup similar to the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, only with fewer basketball courts and more industrial parks. Charming, isn’t it? But the real gem in their conversation wasn’t just about parks; it was how Indonesia and China navigate their relationship in light of the recent U.S. elections.

Ah yes, the United States—because how can we possibly have a global conversation without the good ol’ U.S. of A popping in? Hints of Trump’s administration are still lingering in the air, like a bad smell after a fish market visit. But Hartarto insists that the robust investment relation with China won’t send the U.S. packing. It’s like saying, “We can be friends with both sides!” A diplomatic sibling rivalry, if you will!

Indonesia: Playing the Non-Aligned Card

In this delicate diplomatic dance, Prabowo played the non-aligned card, noting he’s willing to cooperate with “anyone.” The man’s turning into a one-man coalition party! He’ll probably be shaking hands with the entire cast of a Marvel movie at this rate—“I’ll work with Spider-Man and Thanos if I have to!”

Nutrition Meeting with a Side of Park Plans

Interestingly, this rendezvous also concluded with a shiny new financing deal for Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals program. Let’s be real here; nothing says “success” like combining politics and snacks. So while the world is busy contemplating the serious implications of finance and infrastructure, here we are, making sure no child goes hungry in the midst of economic tête-à-têtes.

In Conclusion: A Sea of Opportunities

In retrospect, it seems Prabowo and Xi are not just men in power; they’re a pair of visionary architects ready to take on the challenge of climate disruption one giant structure at a time. As they navigate through their diplomatic waters, let’s hope they don’t run into any metaphorical icebergs along the way. After all, with great walls comes great responsibility, and perhaps a few laughs at their very serious meetings—because if we can’t giggle at geopolitics, are we even doing it right?

Beijing (ANTARA) – In a significant diplomatic engagement on Saturday, November 9, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in discussions on a wide range of critical issues, prominently featuring topics such as the blue economy and the ambitious construction of extensive sea walls designed to protect coastal regions.

During an interview with ANTARA on Sunday, Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto elaborated on the discussions, stating that both leaders paid particular attention to essential maritime affairs, energy initiatives, and sustainable fisheries, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach towards the blue economy.

Furthermore, Minister Hartarto noted the strategic importance of President Prabowo’s initiative to construct formidable sea walls along the northern coast of Java. This monumental project, he mentioned, was met with enthusiasm by President Xi, highlighting the alignment of both nations on infrastructure development, along with the success of the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train project, showcasing fruitful bilateral cooperation.

Additionally, the bilateral meeting served as a platform to delve into the implementation of local currency settlement (LCS) mechanisms, a step aimed at enhancing economic ties between the two nations. They also discussed the Two Countries Twin Parks initiative, an exciting venture designed to bolster collaboration in the development of industrial parks, demonstrating a commitment to fostering economic growth.

According to Minister Hartarto, President Prabowo and President Xi also addressed the evolving political and economic landscape, particularly relating to the recent electoral victory of Donald Trump in the United States and its implications for global alliances.

He remarked, “The US understands that we are enjoying robust investment and trade relations with China,” indicating that the partnership within the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership underscores a collective economic strength. He expressed confidence that Indonesia’s growing economic relationship with China would not deter the United States from offering continued support, citing Indonesia’s engagement with the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity, recently initiated by US President Joe Biden.

“Yesterday, Mr. President affirmed that Indonesia is a non-aligned state willing to cooperate with anyone,” Hartarto stated, emphasizing Indonesia’s strategic diplomatic stance. He also noted that President Prabowo is scheduled to visit Washington soon after completing his agenda in Beijing, underscoring Indonesia’s active role on the global stage. Furthermore, the Saturday meeting culminated in the signing of a pivotal financing agreement aimed at supporting Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals program, reflecting a commitment to enhance social welfare initiatives.

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**Interview ​with‌ Airlangga Hartarto, Indonesia’s‌ Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs**

**Interviewer:** Thank you for‌ joining⁢ us today,⁣ Minister Hartarto. Let’s dive right into your recent discussions between President Prabowo and President Xi Jinping. The focus​ on the blue economy and ⁤giant sea ‍walls certainly ‍caught our attention. Can you elaborate on the significance of these topics?

**Hartarto:** Absolutely! The‍ blue economy is crucial for both Indonesia and China, as it focuses on the⁢ sustainable​ use of ocean resources. During their meeting, President Prabowo ​emphasized our⁣ commitment to protecting our ⁤maritime environment. The proposed great sea walls along the north of Java ​are not just infrastructure;⁣ they represent a⁣ proactive​ measure ‍against climate change and rising sea levels. It’s an exciting, ambitious project backed‌ by President Xi’s enthusiasm.

**Interviewer:** It sounds like there is a lot of optimism surrounding ⁣this initiative. Was ⁣there any discussion on other areas of collaboration?

**Hartarto:** Indeed!​ They also discussed the Jakarta-Bandung⁢ high-speed train project, which has been a ⁤hallmark of ⁤our bilateral cooperation. This train system symbolizes ⁤our shared commitment⁢ to improving connectivity and advancing our​ economies. ⁢It’s impressive how much we can ​accomplish when we work together.

**Interviewer:** Local currency settlements and the⁢ “Two Countries Twin Parks” initiative were also mentioned. Can you ‌explain their importance?

**Hartarto:** The local currency‍ settlement mechanism ⁣is essential for ⁤strengthening our economic ties and reducing ⁤dependency on foreign currencies. It fosters trade and investment, making transactions more‌ efficient.⁣ As for the‌ Twin Parks‍ initiative,‌ it’s about creating industrial parks in both countries that can spur economic ​growth and create jobs. It’s quite exciting to envision how these parks will bolster collaboration.

**Interviewer:** Given the ‍recent U.S. elections⁤ and⁤ the dynamics they introduced, how do you see Indonesia navigating its relationships with ⁤both China ‌and the United ⁢States?

**Hartarto:** Indonesia prides itself on being non-aligned, promoting diplomatic ‍ties with all nations. Our robust⁤ economic engagement with China ​does not⁤ mean‌ we are severing ties with the U.S. It’s more about strategic partnerships. We believe in a balanced approach where‌ we can ⁤collaborate ‍across the board ⁢for mutual benefits.

**Interviewer:** The Free ​Nutritious‍ Meals program mentioned during the meeting​ adds a unique layer to these discussions.⁤ How are ⁣issues like nutrition​ linked to economic cooperation?

**Hartarto:** It goes hand-in-hand.⁣ Ensuring that ​our children have‌ access ‍to nutritious meals is ​fundamental to building⁣ a healthy, productive workforce. Economic cooperation at the⁢ government level also ⁣needs to translate​ into better living conditions for ‌our citizens. It’s about striking a balance between development and‌ social welfare.

**Interviewer:** As you reflect⁣ on these⁢ discussions, what are⁢ your hopes for the ⁣future of Indonesia-China ⁢relations?

**Hartarto:** I am hopeful that ⁢our collaboration⁢ will not only⁣ enhance⁣ economic ties but also create resilient ‌infrastructures to⁣ face climate challenges. As President Prabowo stated, we’re ready to cooperate with anyone for ⁤mutual benefits. Together, we can navigate the waters of opportunity ‌and adversity, ensuring sustainable ⁣growth for our peoples.

**Interviewer:** Thank you, Minister Hartarto, for sharing​ your insights. We look forward to seeing how these ⁣initiatives shape ‌the future of Indonesia and its relations⁢ with China.

**Hartarto:**⁢ Thank⁣ you for ‍having me!