Question: What have Indonesia and Japan achieved together after more than 60 years of relationship?

I think we have many things, like infrastructure building. While I have been here, the MRT was launched after many years. We are about to soft-launch Patimban Port, while discussion is ongoing for the Jakarta-Surabaya railway and all the other infrastructure projects.

I think the economic relations between the two countries have become much closer in terms of vocational training, more investment and more exports from Japanese factories here, which is a gain for Indonesian economy.

The understanding or recognition of the importance of our relations is much higher now, and I think that is the key for the future. Of course, the economic figures can change, with COVID-19 there are ups and downs, but I think as long as we maintain our focus on the relations, a better future is promised.

COVID-19 has changed many things but how have the relations between Japan and Indonesia evolved this year?

There is obviously a lot of cooperation between the two countries to combat COVID-19 challenges, as no country is free from the challenge of COVID-19.

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