Indonesia has again been appointed as host for the 2nd Indonesia-Pacific Parliamentary Partnership (IPPP) forum in Jakarta. This forum is considered to have provided a good example for all regional countries. As host, Indonesia also succeeded in providing inspiration for the guests from delegations from Pacific countries regarding many matters regarding agriculture, marine resource management, natural resources, tourism and so on.
Indonesia’s success in holding this second IPPP cannot be separated from the cooperation of all stakeholders, central government, regional government, security forces from the Indonesian National Army (TNI), Polri, State Intelligence Agency (BIN) and all elements of society united to build a conducive situation.
For every country, being able to hold an international standard forum successfully is a showcase, so that all of them will continue to mobilize all their potential to support the success of the event. The security situation is the subject of initial discussion, because each country has interests.
The main objective of holding the IPPP Session is to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy in building cooperation with Pacific countries in areas of mutual priority, such as maritime, blue economy, connectivity and achieving SDGs ( Sustainable Development Goals ) or sustainable development goals.
When opening the IPPP forum, Chairman of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, said that the IPPP was an important moment because it could continue cooperation from the first IPPP meeting in 2018. Since then, the spirit of Indonesia’s partnership with the parliaments of Pacific countries has grown stronger, as shown by the level of parliamentary attendance at this forum. The relationship between Pacific countries and Indonesia is a comprehensive relationship, not only having solid inter-governmental relations but also strong inter-parliamentary relations.
Meanwhile, when giving his welcoming speech, President Jokowi said there were three important aspects, including climate change, that required parliamentary advocacy. Second is the blue economy which has the potential to contribute 10% of GDP so it requires assistance from parliament to develop environmental conservation and third is improving the quality of human resources in the form of training, which can be accessed by all levels of society.
According to the President, it is very important to strengthen partnerships between the parliaments of Pacific region countries to face economic uncertainty and geopolitical dynamics. Parliamentary cooperation in the Pacific region needs to continue to be improved, in order to maintain stability and achieve prosperity, as well as to find joint solutions to face these challenges because parliament is a bridge for the people.
In the same vein, the Chairman of the DPR RI Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP), Fadli Zon, said that the future challenges faced by all regional countries are very unique and significant. As an island nation, it is aware of the impact of climate change, natural disasters and the recent global pandemic on the economy and society. These challenges underscore the importance of collaboration and the need for innovative and sustainable solutions.
The main focus of discussion is on human development, sustainable marine development, inclusive cooperation between Pacific countries. Indonesia has experience in implementing IPPP. The big hope for all regional countries is how to harmonize existing potential so that it can trigger economic growth in the region.
Fadli also added that this second meeting provides an important platform for us to address these challenges collectively. Discussions will focus on key themes such as human development, maritime sustainability and the promotion of inclusive growth. By sharing experiences and best practices, we can develop strategies that benefit all countries.
Even though there are differences in viewpoints, at least they have the same issues regarding education, investing in education, capacity development, and empowering our communities, especially women and marginalized communities, is very important to achieve our common goals.
We see that the objectives of this meeting are very noble, such as reaffirming the Commitment to Cooperation by strengthening ties between our parliaments and ensuring that collaboration is robust and impactful. Encouraging Regional Connectivity, namely exploring practical steps to improve connectivity throughout the region.
We should give our appreciation to the parties involved in the international meeting. This implementation certainly poses challenges for parliament, because even though the distance between Pacific countries and Indonesia is not too far, there are obstacles faced, namely related to international flights. So being able to formulate a meeting has become a challenge that deserves to be appreciated.
Facilitate better interaction and cooperation among regional countries. Promote Sustainable Development by addressing shared environmental and economic challenges to create a more just and prosperous future for all our communities.
All countries in the Pacific region should be aware of the importance of human resources (HR) in driving economic growth and development. Building a collective awareness of togetherness in facing global challenges is very important, so that later each regional country can carry out an inventory of the potential that can be developed to build regional cooperation.
The IPPP meeting has built collective awareness that all parties have the same interests in facing global challenges. So cooperation is needed in all fields. Indonesia as an archipelagic country and directly bordering Pacific countries is expected to provide inspiration and become a leader in building more cooperation for the benefit of this nation.
The success of holding the IPPP is a record for all parties, and Indonesia as the initiator is able to translate the wishes of regional countries. It is hoped that the problems that have been inventoried throughout the Pacific region can be followed up and implemented in a solution and produce new policies for regional countries to continue to unite to build an inclusive Pacific region and build a new civilization working in all fields.
