Jakarta (ANTARA) - Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno is seeking closer cooperation with Ankara across key sectors including drinking water management, integrated public transport, cultural diplomacy, youth and sports empowerment, and the digital transformation of public services.

"We came to Ankara to open the door for real and beneficial collaboration for our people," Rano said in a statement received in Jakarta on Wednesday regarding his meeting with the Turkish capital's mayor.

He said both cities face similar challenges in improving basic services, integrating transportation systems, and expanding inclusive public spaces — issues that could be addressed through knowledge-sharing and intercity partnerships.

In talks with Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş, the two officials discussed reducing water leakage, improving the performance of local water utilities, and developing integrated urban transport systems.

They also explored joint cultural initiatives, such as festivals and creative exchanges involving students and youth, alongside efforts to enhance data transparency and citizen participation in digital public services.

Both sides stressed the importance of expanding green spaces to support public health, social interaction, and climate resilience.

Mayor Yavaş welcomed the partnership, saying Ankara is eager to share its best practices while also learning from Jakarta’s rapid progress in public transportation.

To move forward, Jakarta and Ankara agreed to establish joint working groups, conduct inter-agency technical exchanges and site visits, and explore a formal memorandum of understanding under their respective legal frameworks.

The collaboration will follow a structured approach with defined targets, performance indicators, and timelines to ensure measurable outcomes.

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