Indonesia and Japan Enhance Transportation Cooperation in Diplomatic Talks
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi held a productive meeting with the Japanese Ambassador to Indonesia, Masaki Yasushi, on Friday, focusing on bolstering bilateral cooperation in the transportation sector between the two nations.
In a statement released from the minister’s office in Jakarta, Sumadi expressed his optimism about enhancing and diversifying collaboration between Indonesia and Japan, particularly in the realm of transportation. He highlighted the memorandum of cooperation signed in January, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to intensifying their partnership in this critical sector.
The minister provided an update on key Indonesia-Japan projects, including the East-West Line of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) in Jakarta, the Patimban Port in West Java’s Subang, and the Proving Ground in West Java’s Bekasi. Notably, Sumadi emphasized President Joko Widodo’s keen interest in the development of the MRT’s East-West Line, with a loan agreement set to be signed in March 2024.
Expressing gratitude for Japan’s support, Sumadi welcomed the groundbreaking ceremony for the MRT East-West Line scheduled for August 2024. He stressed the significance of this moment and the commitment of both countries to making the project a success.
The minister urged Japan’s active participation in the development of Patimban Port, specifically in creating a backup area. He disclosed plans to fly to Tokyo in April for discussions with the Japanese government and potential investors regarding transit-oriented development along the North-South and East-West lines of MRT Jakarta. Coordination with Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is already underway to prepare for the upcoming business forum.
Ambassador Yasushi acknowledged the progress of ongoing transportation projects, particularly those related to the MRT and Patimban Port. He expressed confidence in the mutual benefits of these initiatives for Indonesia and Japan, pledging to encourage Japanese companies to adhere to necessary procedures to ensure the success of the projects. The meeting underscored the commitment of both nations to fostering a robust and collaborative transportation partnership.
