Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals Program initiated by President Prabowo Subianto as a concrete example of the country’s national development efforts to improve the well-being of its citizens. This initiative was highlighted during a bilateral meeting at the Merdeka Palace, where Albanese lauded the Indonesian people’s hard work and aspirations, recognizing programs like the free nutritious meals as crucial for enhancing the quality of life.
In addition to commending Indonesia’s commitment to national development, Albanese also emphasized the country’s significant role in the Indo-Pacific region. He noted Indonesia’s increasing influence in promoting peace, prosperity, and stability within the region, stressing the strategic importance of its rapid progress for both the region and Australia’s bilateral relations with Indonesia. Discussions during the meeting centered on enhancing strategic cooperation between the two countries, with a particular focus on defense, trade, investment, as well as Indonesia’s aspirations to join the OECD and the CPTPP.
Furthermore, the Australian Prime Minister underscored the partnership’s core values of shared values, mutual respect, and a vision for inclusive regional development. He highlighted the longstanding historical ties between Australia and Indonesia, dating back to Indonesia’s independence struggle. Albanese emphasized the significance of collaboration between Australians and Indonesians in strengthening stability, prosperity, and security in the region they both hold dear.