Indonesian media outlets have hailed the recent visit of President Joko Widodo of Indonesia to the UAE and his meeting with President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, highlighting the strong ties between the two countries and the UAE’s position as a key partner for Indonesia in the Middle East.
Indonesian media unanimously emphasised the significance of the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements signed between the UAE and Indonesia, which aim to bolster bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
Indonesian news agency (ANTARA) dedicated significant coverage to the visit, highlighting the discussions between the two leaders and the subsequent signing of MoUs and agreements in areas such as tourism, economics, and energy. It also noted that the agreements further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The Republika Online underscored the importance of the talks held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, emphasising the focus on climate cooperation and clean energy. The site highlighted President Widodo’s appreciation for the UAE’s investment support, particularly in developing the Cirata floating solar plant in Indonesia, which has a capacity of up to 500MW and is the largest in Southeast Asia.
Additionally, President Widodo welcomed laying the foundation stone for the Mohamed bin Zayed-Joko Widodo International Mangrove Research Centre in Bali and the collaboration between the two countries on establishing a nuclear power plant.
Bali Post highlighted the meeting between the two presidents, which aimed to explore avenues to boost cooperation in various fields, particularly in the economic domain. The site quoted Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, who affirmed the UAE’s position as one of Indonesia’s key partners in the Middle East.
Berita Satu website also reported that President Widodo received the “Order of Zayed,” the highest civilian honour granted by the UAE, bestowed by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. The award recognises President Widodo’s efforts in strengthening UAE-Indonesia ties and enhancing cooperation during his ten-year presidency.
Furthermore, the site highlighted Sheikh Mohamed’s remarks, stating that the Order of Zayed is a testament to the personal esteem held for the Indonesian President and his highly valued efforts to advance bilateral relations.
President Widodo expressed his pride in receiving the award, emphasising that it reflects the exceptional relationship between the two countries and honours the legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, an inspiring global figure with an enduring legacy of humanitarian values.