Prabowo eyes ratification of Indonesia-Vietnam EEZ agreement

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto, during talks with his Vietnamese counterpart Luong Cuong, expressed Indonesia's commitment to fast-track the ratification of the previously agreed-upon exclusive economic zones (EEZ) treaty between the two nations.

The two heads of state held a bilateral meeting at a hotel in Lima, Peru, on Friday (November 15) at local time on the sidelines of the 2024 APEC Summit, according to a release received from Prabowo's media team in Jakarta on Saturday.

"We are committed to accelerating the process toward the ratification of the exclusive economic zones. Of course, we will also need to formulate regulations on the implementation (of the agreement)," Prabowo remarked.

The Indonesian president also emphasized that he treasured the strong bond long nurtured between their countries and is keen to expand the coverage of their cooperation, thereby bringing it to the next level.

"Our (countries') relations have been very strong and good. We have been maintaining bilateral ties for 70 years now. I am looking forward to stepping up and developing this strategic partnership," he stated.

He then highlighted that Indonesia and Vietnam have been enjoying sound ties in trade, noting that the two countries will likely further intensify their commercial activities in the future.

Meanwhile, Vietnamese President Luong Cuong expressed optimism about Prabowo's leadership bringing Indonesia to excellence.

"I believe that under Mr. President's leadership, valor, and capabilities, Indonesia will grow excellently," he remarked.

The president then expressed his keenness to further bolster the well-fostered partnership between Indonesia and Vietnam.

He affirmed that Vietnam will always play an important role in developing the traditional ties maintained by the two countries.