PH, Indonesia conclude Manila dialogue; hopes high for auspicious outcomes

The Philippines and Indonesia concluded their dialogue to review accomplishments on mutual collaboration and interest, with both sides anticipating even more auspicious future outcomes.

“Our time-honored partnership has positively evolved in a way that enables us to address the many developments through the years in our bilateral relationship, as well as the changing regional and global landscapes. I have no doubt that through the JCBC, the Philippines and Indonesia will achieve much more success in the future,” Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo said.

Manalo met with Indonesia Foreign Affairs Minister Retno L.P. Marsudi to conclude the 7th Philippines-Indonesia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Manila on Jan. 9.

He said they took stock of the progress in the implementation of the bilateral priorities in the Philippines-Indonesia Plan of Action 2022-2027, which they signed on the sidelines of President Marcos’ state visit to Indonesia in September 2022.

The DFA chief said the plan of action covers multifaceted cooperation in political and security; border issues; regional and global issues; economic cooperation; sociocultural and people-to-people exchange; and judicial and consular matters between the two countries.

He added that both sides exchanged views on regional and international issues, including the South China Sea, the situation in Myanmar, and in the Middle East, among others.

“We committed to continue implementing our Plan of Action towards further elevating our bilateral relations to new heights, especially as we mark the 75th Anniversary of Philippines-Indonesia Diplomatic Relations this year,” Manalo stated.

The JCBC is the primary dialogue mechanism between the Philippines and Indonesia to review accomplishments on mutual collaboration initiatives, exchange views on issues of mutual interest, and consider plans for enhancing cooperation.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo is set to arrive in the country on Tuesday night for a three-day visit. He is scheduled to meet Marcos on Wednesday, Jan. 10.

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