E. Java, France to develop economic cooperation

SURABAYA: The East Java administration in cooperation with the French government and investors from Belgium have reached an agreement to develop the economy and human resources along the province's northern coastal area, especially in Gresik regency.

The three parties signed a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday at the Grahadi Building in Surabaya.

French Ambassador Phillipe Zeller said both France and East Java had initiated the cooperation in May 2007, proposing to expand the cooperation in economic and human resources development.

Zeller said East Java had many potential natural and human resources, which could be developed for the better economic development for all people in the province.

These potential resources have encouraged more investors to expand their businesses in the province, he added.

France, he said, wanted to participate in the province's development, just like Japan, China and the US, which have existing cooperation with East Java. - JP