By Neo Bodumela
Jakarta, Indonesia – President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the Republic of Indonesia for its longstanding solidarity with South Africa and acknowledged the role that the Asian country played as an ally during the struggle against apartheid.
The President was delivering opening remarks during bilateral talks as part of his State Visit to Indonesia on Wednesday.
The Southeast Asian country was also the scene of the first Asia-Africa Conference – called the Bandung Conference – some 70 years ago which was attended by newly independent states and representatives of the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
“The Bandung Conference of 1955 was a great inspiration and a source of encouragement to the leaders of our liberation struggle who were present there.
“For all these years, the people of South Africa found a steadfast ally in Indonesia which consistently supported the struggle against apartheid. We will forever remain grateful for the support and the solidarity of the people of Indonesia,” President Ramaphosa said.
Now, the two countries form part of the world’s intergovernmental organisations such as the BRICS+ group of countries.
“We look forward to working closely with Indonesia and all other BRICS countries and partner countries on shared priorities such as driving much needed global reforms.
“The BRICS economic partnership also provides a great potential to support development and transformation in our countries, and we encourage the deepening of Indonesia’s participation in all BRICS structures – particularly in the BRICS economic partnership.
“This could also be the catalyst for the growth of bilateral economic relations between our two countries which we look forward to,” the President said.
The two countries are also part of the G20 Forum which South Africa currently holds the Presidency for.
“We appreciate Indonesia’s representation and contribution to the G20. We are especially pleased that Your Excellency will participate in the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, later this coming month.
“We must say that Indonesia’s presence at the G20 is so key and important as it lifts the stature of the G20. Particularly when countries like your country and South Africa – key countries in the global South – participate in such fora,” he said.
Enhancing trade
President Ramaphosa is accompanied on the State Visit by Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes.
This, he emphasised, is a “clear demonstration of our shared commitment to deepening cooperation between the two countries” including on trade.
President Ramaphosa described South Africa as a “gateway to the continent…well positioned to serve as a strategic base for Indonesian investment and trade expansion into Africa”.
“In light of recent global trade tensions, including the imposition of tariffs by major economies, it is increasingly important for countries like ours to strengthen South–South trade and economic cooperation.
“Enhancing bilateral trade ties and expanding market access between South Africa and Indonesia is both a strategic imperative and a practical response to shifting global dynamics.
“Our partnership can help build more resilient and diversified economies and unlock new opportunities for inclusive growth,” he added.
The two countries have enjoyed cordial relations for decades and South Africa “remains committed to working closely with Indonesia to further expand and deepen our political, economic and sectoral cooperation”.
“We would like to see our two countries finalise and implement existing agreements. This will elevate bilateral relations between South Africa and Indonesia, based on mutual political trust and partnership.
“This instrument will serve as a foundation for deepening our cooperation and delivering tangible benefits to our peoples.
“Let us use this moment to reaffirm our shared values, strengthen our strategic alignment and build a partnership that contributes meaningfully to peace, prosperity and sustainable development,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
