I hope the proposal for the funding of the second phase (of the project) could be followed up on soon.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), through Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu, put forth a request to Japanese companies to invest in Natuna District, Riau Islands Province.

"I want Japan to invest in Natuna," the president remarked during a meeting with Toshimitsu at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Friday.

The head of state lauded the existing sound cooperation between Indonesia and Japan in developing the first phase of an integrated marine and fishery center in Natuna.

"I hope the proposal for the funding of the second phase (of the project) would be followed up on soon," he noted.

Natuna waters have again drawn the attention of national and international media outlets after Chinese coast guard vessels and fishing boats repeatedly violated the Indonesian exclusive economic zone (EEZ) rights.

The Chinese vessels were found escorting tens of Chinese fishing boats to poach in Indonesia's EEZ near the Natuna waters on December 19 and 24, 2019.

In March 2016, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno L. P. Marsudi had lodged a protest with the Chinese Charge d'affaires in Jakarta, Sun Weide, over Chinese coast guard violations in the Indonesian waters.

Related news: President Jokowi keen to ensure law enforcement in Natuna

On the occasion, the president also extended welcome greetings to the Japanese foreign minister and his entourage.

"Welcome to Jakarta and congratulations on assuming the new task of foreign minister," he noted.

As a foreign minister with a background in economics, Toshimitsu will indubitably divert greater attention to economic diplomacy, Jokowi stated.

Japan is one of Indonesia's key partners, he noted.

"I know that after this meeting, His Excellency will hold bilateral talks with the Indonesian foreign minister to discuss bilateral cooperation in detail," he added. Related news: Chinese investment in Indonesia not affected: minister

Related news: Mily chief orders Navy to drive away fishing vessels in EEZ

EDITED BY INE

Translator: Agus Salim/Suharto
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2020