"During this visit, Minister Turkovic hopes that the relationship among people upholding religious values of the Muslim-majority population in each country would continue to improve in various other fields," Indonesian Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Mahendra Siregar stated at the Vice President's official residence in Jakarta, Monday.
Siregar later highlighted Minister Turkovic's expectations to intensify cooperation in the areas of economy, trade, tourism, student relations, scholars, business, investment, and joint production by utilizing the markets of both nations.
"As we knew, Indonesia was present when Bosnia and Herzegovina was founded and during the independence as well. Indonesia also recognized its independence, sent peacekeeping troops, and built a friendship mosque in Sarajevo," he remarked.
Speaking in connection with Minister Turkovic's statement, Vice President Amin welcomed the steps taken and expressed keenness to strengthen cooperation between both nations in the near future.
"This includes improving relations in strategic industries, halal products, and certification, as well as deepening comprehensive cooperation for Indonesian exports as well as opening up the market for Indonesian products in Bosnia, which is a strategic location next to the European Union area to realize joint production," Siregar stated.
He affirmed that the pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, and construction services industries were also being explored for further discussion.
"In future, Indonesia and Bosnia-Herzegovina will continue to hold various meetings that are more technical and more specific to the industry and certain sectors, including relations between communities," he remarked.
Siregar noted that Vice President Amin suggested that the two countries should increase interfaith dialog, which was a strong characteristic of the Indonesian nation.
"So far, we have succeeded in maintaining unity despite many challenges. It seems that Bosnia is still struggling to maintain the integrity of its nation and state in the midst of internal problems," Siregar remarked.
He conveyed that Bosnia hoped to take a cue from Indonesia regarding its diversity and the strength of Indonesian unity.
"Indonesian unity is important to become an example, a reference, and a value that must be delivered to the people in Bosnia, as a country that wants to continue its progress and development," Siregar concluded.
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Translator: Desca Lidya N, Resinta S
Editor: Sri Haryati
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