Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto welcomed Bill Gates—renowned philanthropist and co-founder of Microsoft—at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday morning.
Prabowo greeted Gates with a handshake in the palace courtyard before accompanying him to the credential room.
The two engaged in conversation and posed for a photo session, after which the president invited Gates to his office.
Several Indonesian ministers were also present at the meeting.
Earlier in the day, Yusuf Permana, Deputy for Protocol, Press, and Media of the Presidential Secretariat, said that Prabowo and Gates would discuss several topics related to sustainable development.
“Specifically, the two will exchange views on global health, nutrition, financial inclusiveness, and public digital infrastructure,” he said.
Gates, who ranked 13th on Forbes’ list of the world’s wealthiest individuals this month, flew to Jakarta after visiting Singapore, where he reviewed various sustainable development initiatives.
Prabowo had announced Gates’ visit during a plenary cabinet meeting on May 5.
“On May 7, Bill Gates will come here following a letter he sent last November requesting a meeting with me. He expressed interest in supporting and presenting an award for our Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program,” the president said.
He expressed appreciation for Gates’ gesture but emphasized that his administration would carry out the program regardless of external support.
“He said he would assist us, though I’m not sure in what form,” Prabowo said. "Regardless, we are committed to continuing this program without relying on aid or awards, because it is an investment in our future generations."
