We enjoy a large surplus in trade with India."New Delhi (ANTARA News) - President Joko Widodos state visit to India began with an official welcome ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Presidential Palace, here, Monday.
Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and First Lady Iriana Widodo were greeted by Indian President Pranab Mukherjee and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Indonesian president then visited the Raj Ghat memorial complex, where he paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of Indias struggle for independence, and laid a wreath at the eternal flame.
Jokowi is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Modi at Hyderabad House. They will also witness the signing of several memoranda of understanding.
After a lunch, to be hosted by the Indian Prime Minister, the two leaders will issue a joint press statement.
In the afternoon, President Jokowi will receive a courtesy call from Indian Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari at the Leela Palace Hotel.
In the evening, he will hold a limited meeting with President Mukherjee, who will later host a state banquet for him.
Members of the presidential entourage during the two-day state visit to India, include Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Darmin Nasution, Industry Minister Airlangga Hartarto, Trade Minister Enggartiasto Lukito, Foreign Affairs Minister Retno LP Marsudi, and Chairman of the Investment Coordinating Board Thomas Lembong.
Indonesian Ambassador to India Rizali Wilma Indrakesuma flanks the President and his entourage during the state visit.
India is Indonesias largest trade partner in South Asia and fourth largest trade partner in the world.
"We enjoy a large surplus in trade with India. We continue to boost our trade ties, including by diversifying our trade with and exports to India," Minister Retno Marsudi said.
Indonesia intends to diversify its goods and commodities exported to India, as the countrys exports are currently dominated by crude palm oil (CPO) and coal.
"Several issues will be discussed. We are exploring trade diversification with India," the minister stated.
In addition to CPO and coal, Indonesia should be able to export other products to India.
"For instance, (we could export) furniture, gambier, areca nut, and many other things," the minister remarked.
From India, President Jokowi will proceed to Iran on Dec 14.
(Reported by Hanni Sofia Soepardi/Uu.INE/KR-BSR/F001)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
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