“We have asked them to encourage Spain to help garner support from other European countries for this initiative,” DPD Deputy Speaker Yorrys Raweyai informed after the meeting, which included First Vice President of the Spanish Senate, Javier Maroto Aranzabal.
He said that the regional forum -- comprising Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Thailand -- is expected to be launched on August 5 this year by Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen.
The establishment of the ASEAN Senate Forum aims to strengthen relations among regional representative bodies in Southeast Asian countries.
In addition to the proposed forum, the two delegations discussed cooperation between Indonesia and Spain in the fields of economy, culture, and tourism.
“We also exchanged insights and experiences, since we (Indonesia) have been a long-time partner to Spain,” he added.
In a press release, Raweyai emphasized the importance of Indonesia strengthening and maintaining robust bilateral relations, including with Spain, as part of efforts to enhance national resilience in the face of global challenges, particularly those stemming from transboundary armed conflicts.
He noted that the international community is continuing to struggle in finding solutions to prolonged regional conflicts, which have negatively impacted global investment and trade.
“The global order is being tested by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine wars, while rising tensions between Israel and Iran are making matters worse. Major powers and the United Nations have yet to deliver effective solutions,” he said.
He then stressed the need for Indonesia to expand bilateral cooperation with Spain across various sectors, including business, investment, trade, and culture.
“If the 50 provinces of Spain and 38 provinces of Indonesia can establish sister province partnerships to tap into the potential of both nations, I believe our bilateral ties will reach new heights and cover even more sectors,” he added.
Related news: Indonesia, Spain to step up bilateral financial cooperation: Ministry
Translator: Melalusa S, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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