Prabowo welcomes Singapore PM at Merdeka Palace

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto welcomed the state visit of Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at Merdeka Palace on Wednesday.

Wong's arrival was marked by a military escort, with cavalry troops and the presidential security guard's (Paspampres) musical corps in attendance.

As PM Wong's vehicle entered the Merdeka Palace grounds, several schoolchildren greeted him with the words 'Welcome to Indonesia.'

President Prabowo then greeted the prime minister as he exited the vehicle. The welcoming procession continued with a formal ceremony, during which the national anthems of Indonesia and Singapore were played, accompanied by a 19-gun salute.

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After the salute, the president and prime minister inspected the honor guard before introducing their respective delegations.

The Indonesian delegation includes Foreign Minister Sugiono, Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, and Indonesian Ambassador to Singapore Suryo Pratomo.

President Prabowo then invited PM Wong for a photo session and to sign the state guestbook in the Kredensial Room of the palace.

The two leaders then proceeded to the Jepara Room of the palace for a tête-à-tête meeting.

According to a press release from Singapore's Prime Minister's Office, Wong's visit reaffirms Singapore's commitment to strengthening its friendship with Indonesia and provides an opportunity for both leaders to exchange views on strengthening bilateral ties.