Jakarta — Indonesian Defense Minister and President-elect for 2024-2029, Prabowo Subianto, plans to visit Papua New Guinea to continue the positive bilateral relations established under President Joko Widodo’s (Jokowi) leadership.

Prabowo announced this plan after hosting Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and his delegation at the Ministry of Defense on Monday afternoon (15/7).

“One of my early actions in office will be to visit Papua New Guinea,” said Prabowo. “He (Prime Minister James Marape) is very keen on maintaining close relations with Indonesia. And so am I. I want to continue the policies of President Joko Widodo, and they are very pleased about that,” he continued.

Prabowo noted that Jokowi has fostered good relations with neighboring countries, and there are many areas in which cooperation can be further developed.

“The relationship of President Jokowi with our neighbors is very good. President Joko Widodo recently visited PNG. I also promise to visit soon. There are many areas in which we can continue to cooperate. They are committed to working with us,” Prabowo asserted.

Prabowo also remarked that Papua New Guinea shares a similar national philosophy with Indonesia, focusing on mutual respect for each country’s strengths.

“We want to maintain good relations. They share the same philosophy as us. They want to respect all countries, all powers. We have almost the same view, to respect all nations,” Prabowo concluded.