Bali – The 2nd Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) marks a new era in cooperation between Indonesia and African countries. With the theme “Bandung Spirit for Africa’s Agenda 2063,” the forum not only celebrates the long history of relations between the two sides since the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference, but also affirms their commitment in facing current and future global challenges.
President Joko Widodo stressed the importance of solidarity among Global South countries and described the forum as a concrete step to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation.
Jokowi also said that it was an honor for Indonesia to host the second summit of the Indonesia Africa Forum. He said that the forum was dedicated to advancing inclusive and sustainable global development.
On that occasion, President Joko Widodo introduced President-elect Prabowo Subianto to the Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF).
“On this happy occasion, allow me to introduce the president-elect of Indonesia, Mr. Prabowo Subianto, who will be inaugurated next month and will lead Indonesia in the future,” Jokowi said while opening the IAF participants’ dinner.
Indonesia remains focused on four main sectors that are the focus of cooperation, namely related to food security, energy, health, and minerals.
Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi in front of the Chairmen of the Indonesian Parliament and African countries, Retno welcomed the holding of the IAPF. This reflects the close friendship and shared values between Indonesia and African countries.
“Although we are geographically separated, the shared values of solidarity and equality rooted in the Bandung Spirit of the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference continue to unite us,” said the Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Indonesia remains committed to strengthening this relationship by realizing the Bandung Spirit into practical cooperation that benefits the people of Indonesia and African countries. The Bandung Spirit continues to be mentioned in this IAPF meeting.
The forum also served as an important platform to address the issue of protectionism, particularly in the context of environmental policies that often hamper developing countries. The dialogue between participants resulted in constructive discussions on how countries in the Global South can work together to address discriminatory practices and promote fairer policies on the international stage.
Attended by heads of state and high-ranking officials from various African countries, the 2nd IAF was not only a forum for dialogue, but also a platform for signing significant memorandums of understanding. The total value of the signed MoUs reached US$3.5 billion, covering various projects that are expected to improve economic connectivity between Indonesia and Africa. This reflects the great potential for diversifying export markets, commodity supplies, and mutually beneficial foreign investment.
Amid uncertain global conditions, economic uncertainty and rising geopolitical tensions, as well as the impact of climate change, Retno emphasized the importance of inter-parliamentary collaboration. According to her, this collaboration allows parliaments to share experiences and best practices in finding joint solutions.
This event not only marks a shared commitment to a brighter future, but also serves as a reminder that cooperation based on trust and mutual understanding is the key to addressing many of today’s global challenges. With this spirit, Indonesia and Africa are ready to carry out cooperation that will bring positive impacts to both parties and more broadly, to the entire world.
The Foreign Minister emphasized that peace and stability are the main conditions for development. On the issue of Palestine, the Foreign Minister conveyed the importance of parliament playing a role in mobilizing international public pressure, supporting humanitarian aid, and encouraging a two-state solution.
“Together, we must continue to fight for justice and humanity for the Palestinian people,” he stressed.
