Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals Program initiated by President Prabowo Subianto as a significant step towards enhancing the well-being of Indonesian citizens. The program showcases Indonesia’s commitment to national development and improving the quality of life for its people. During a bilateral meeting at the Merdeka Palace, Albanese commended Indonesia for its dedication to initiatives like the free nutritious meals program, emphasizing their importance in the country’s broader transformation agenda.
In addition to praising Indonesia’s domestic efforts, Albanese also highlighted the country’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. He emphasized Indonesia’s role in promoting peace, prosperity, and stability, underscoring its strategic importance for regional dynamics and Australia’s bilateral relations. The leaders discussed opportunities to enhance strategic cooperation between Australia and Indonesia, particularly in areas such as defense, trade, investment, as well as Indonesia’s aspirations to join the OECD and the CPTPP.
Albanese stressed the partnership’s foundation on shared values, mutual respect, and a vision for inclusive regional development. He recognized the historical ties between Australia and Indonesia, dating back to Indonesia’s fight for independence. The Australian Prime Minister emphasized the importance of collaboration between the two nations, working together to strengthen stability, prosperity, and security in the region they both value dearly.