"We discussed efforts to improve our bilateral relationship between."
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesia and Cyprus discussed efforts to strengthen their partnership during Cypriot Foreign Minister Markos Kyprianou`s meeting with his Indonesian counterpart Marty Natalegawa here Tuesday.

Marty told the press after the meeting, Kyprianou`s working visit to Indonesia showed his country`s eagerness to develop its partnership with Indonesia.

"We discussed efforts to improve our bilateral relationship between, especially to strengthen our partnership in trade, tourism and investment," Marty said.

Cypprus`s seriousness in wishing to have closer relationship with Indonesia was proven by the fact that Cyprus had posted an ambassador in Jakarta since January 2010.

"I told Mr Kyprianou about our domestic conditions in relation with our position as the chair of ASEAN, and he also briefed me about his country`s involvement in the European Union," Marty said.

At their meeting, the two foreign ministers also agreed that their two countries should conclude Merchant Shipping and Double Taxation Avoidance agreements that would open wider opportunities for bilateral economic cooperation and trade.

The two foreign ministers then signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on bilateral consultations which would be the basis for the implementation of regular bilateral consultations.

The Cypriot foreign minister on the occasion presented via Marty a post-disaster donation of 50,000 US dollars to Indonesia.

At the meantime, Kyprianou said he appreciated Indonesia`s positive response to his country`s wish to strengthen its bilateral partnership with Indonesia.

"I hope this partnership will work well, so that both countries can cooperate fruitfully in various sectors," Kyprianou said.
(Uu.KR-FNY/HAJM/S012)

Editor: Priyambodo RH
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