Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese commended Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals Program spearheaded by President Prabowo Subianto as a concrete example of the country’s efforts in national development to improve the welfare of its people. In a bilateral meeting at the Merdeka Palace, Albanese praised the initiative as a crucial component of Indonesia’s broader transformation agenda. He lauded the hard work and aspirations of the Indonesian population, recognizing initiatives like the free nutritious meals program as essential for enhancing the quality of life.
Moreover, Albanese recognized Indonesia’s pivotal role in the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing its growing influence in promoting peace, prosperity, and stability. He highlighted the strategic significance of Indonesia’s rapid advancement not only for the region but also for Australia’s bilateral ties with the country. The leaders deliberated on strengthening strategic cooperation between Australia and Indonesia, with a focus on defense, trade, investment, as well as Indonesia’s aspirations to join the OECD and the CPTPP.
Albanese underscored the partnership’s groundwork on shared values, mutual respect, and a vision for inclusive regional growth. He emphasized the longstanding historical bonds between Australia and Indonesia, tracing back to Indonesia’s fight for independence. Albanese stressed the importance of collaboration between Australians and Indonesians, working hand in hand to bolster stability, prosperity, and security in the cherished region they both inhabit.
