Joko Widodo Welcomes UAE Minister Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan in Solo

Solo, The Gulf Observer: Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) hosted a visit from Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, at his residence in Solo, Central Java, on Wednesday. The visit, which Jokowi described as informal, focused on the UAE-supported development projects in Solo.

Sheikh Nahyan toured the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and inspected the nearly completed cardiovascular hospital, which is being built with the support of the UAE government. Jokowi highlighted that the hospital, a donation to the city, is a significant contribution to Solo’s healthcare infrastructure.

“He visited the cardiovascular hospital, which will be donated to the city of Solo,” Jokowi told reporters, emphasizing the informal nature of the gathering, as he and Al Nahyan have shared a long-standing relationship. “They just came here and visited my house, nothing more,” he said.

Regarding infrastructure development in Solo, Jokowi mentioned that progress can be expedited through various funding channels, including the regional budget (APBD), state funds, and grants. “I believe these will speed up development in Solo,” he remarked.

When asked about potential future cooperation between Indonesia and the UAE, Jokowi deferred to current officials. “I am now just a citizen. Please direct that question to the local or central government,” he stated.

Acting Mayor of Solo, Dhoni Widianto, provided an update on the cardiovascular hospital’s construction, confirming that it is nearly complete, with over 95 percent of the work finished.

The UAE’s contributions continue to strengthen ties between the two nations, marking a lasting legacy of collaboration and mutual support.