We have been very close friends and we`re very supportive of each others` objectives in terms of moving forward"
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Foreign Affairs Minister Marty Natalegawa on Monday met with his Philippine counterpart Albert F Del Rosario to discuss bilateral issues.

"During the Monday meeting, we discussed efforts to increase bilateral relation between Indonesia and the Philippines. The challenge now is to identify new opportunities to work on such as in the trade, economic and investment sectors," Marty said at a press conference.

Marty also stated the Monday meeting with Rosario was in line with the plan of the Philippines` President Benigno Aquino III to visit Jakarta next March 7-9.

Meanwhile, Del Rosario said on the same occasion President Aquino`s visit to Jakarta was an opportunity for Indonesia and the Philippines to strengthen their bilateral ties.

"We have been very close friends and we`re very supportive of each others` objectives in terms of moving forward," the minister said adding that the Philippines was also ready to work with Indonesia within the context of ASEAN.

Del Rosario was visiting Indonesia for the first ever since he was appointed as Foreign Affairs Minister last February 24. The minister arrived in Jakarta one day ahead of President Aquino`s visit.(*)

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Editor: Jafar M Sidik
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