A statement from the ministry on Wednesday announced that Sadikin signed an MoU with Sudanese Health Minister Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim Awadalla and another with Zimbabwean Minister of Women Affairs, Community, and SME Development, Monica Mutsvangwa, on the sidelines of the second Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) in Bali on Tuesday.
"I expect that cooperation in the health sector between Indonesia, Sudan, and Zimbabwe will strengthen relations between our nations and encourage further collaborations with other African countries," Sadikin noted.
He emphasized that the collaboration with Sudan covers several key areas, including health services, health resilience, disease control and prevention, pandemic preparedness, pharmaceutical and medical devices, and health human resources and technology.
Sadikin also mentioned that Indonesia and Sudan held a bilateral meeting to discuss ways to deepen relations, particularly in medical specialization and issues, as well as in support for the pharmaceutical industry.
He commented that Sudan has already established a strong partnership with Indonesia in the pharmaceutical industry, which has led the African nation to seek further capacity-building support from Indonesia.
Sadikin added that the collaboration with Zimbabwe includes primary healthcare, secondary healthcare, health preparedness, and emergency response, among other areas.
He expressed hope that the MoUs with both countries would not only improve bilateral relations but also promote economic growth and sustainable development. Additionally, these agreements are expected to expand access to national pharmaceutical and medical devices in Sudan, Zimbabwe, and other African nations.
Sadikin noted that Indonesia has a history of assisting these countries. In November 2023, the National Red Cross sent medical aid to Sudan, including 10 tons of medical supplies valued at US$127,000, followed by additional aid from the ministry on April 3.
He also recalled that Indonesia assisted Zimbabwe in 2021 by sending US$150,000 worth of medications and medical devices for victims of Cyclone Idai.
Related news: Indonesia shares food security practices with African nations
Related news: Indonesia explores expansion of utilizing geothermal energy at IAF
Reporter: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie
Editor: Anton Santoso
Copyright © ANTARA 2024
