This pioneer expedition is the implementation of the "Statement on Shared Vision of India-Indonesia Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific" that was discussed and agreed by President Joko Widodo and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the prime minister`s state visit to Indonesia on May 29-30, 2018.
The pioneer expedition of the merchant vessel was launched by Director General of Policy Analysis Development Agency (PADA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Representatives from the Aceh provincial government and Aceh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as Consul General of India in Medan, according to a statement from the Indonesian Foreign Ministry here on Monday.
In his keynote speech, Head of PADA, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Siswo Pramono stated that this pioneer expedition will help to enhance business connectivity that plays an important role in creating inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Furthermore, the pioneer expedition opens an alternative source of supply to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Before the expedition, most of the supply had been sourced from mainland India. It also benefits both Aceh and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, as it offers more efficient delivery cost and time.
The pioneer expedition of the trade vessel, departing on December 29, 2018, from Malahayati Port in Banda Aceh to Port Blair in Andaman & Nicobar Islands, brings samples of Aceh`s products needed by Andaman & Nicobar Islands` market.
Before the pioneer expedition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had conducted preliminary research and meetings with related stakeholders, including business circles in Aceh and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, local government, and academics to discuss the enhancement of business connectivity between the two regions.
Furthermore, the ministry had conducted the India-Indonesia Investment Forum in Banda Aceh on July 9, 2018; formulated the Aceh-Andaman & Nicobar Connectivity Road Map in Jakarta on August 8, 2018; held a technical FGD in Banda Aceh on November 5, 2018; and conducted Market Intelligence in Port Blair by a team from the Almuslim University, Malikussaleh University, and Syiah Kuala University and Indonesia-India Seminar and Business Forum in Port Blair on November 29, 2018, and in Chennai on December 1, 2018.
Reporting by Azis Kurmala
Editing by Andi Abdussalam
Reporter: ANTARA
Editor: Bustanuddin
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