"I think the cooperation between Indonesia and Sweden can be increased further, because of the rising number of opportunities to do so," President Yudhoyono said.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has stated that there is still plenty of scope for improvement in cooperation between Indonesia and Sweden, especially in the fields of economy, tourism and education.

"I think the cooperation between Indonesia and Sweden can be increased further, because of the rising number of opportunities to do so," he said during a press conference, accompanied by Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt, at Merdeka Palace here on Wednesday.

The head of state noted that the two countries have already been cooperating in the fields of investment, trade, education and human rights, among others.

"Therefore, instead of providing the private sector with all the opportunities to take part in the nation's economic development, the government continues to invite and encourage businessmen from friendly countries to invest in Indonesia," he explained.

On the occasion, Reinfeldt stated that during his visit to Jakarta, he brought along a number of Swedish entrepreneurs in an effort to boost bilateral economic cooperation.

"We see a lot of business opportunities here, as well as opportunities in education, infrastructure, and health services. The two countries have much experience in bilateral cooperation, so we sure can find local partners for Swedish businessmen," he said.

President Yudhoyono received Reinfeldt on Wednesday afternoon ahead of a bilateral meeting.

The President was accompanied by Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Hatta Rajasa, Minister of Trade Gita Wirjawan, and Minister of Industry MS Hidayat, among other ministers.

Reinfeldt was accompanied by Swedish Trade Minister Ewa Bjorling, State Secretary Katarina Areskoug Mascarenhas and Swedish Ambassador to Indonesia Ewa Polano, among other officials.

During his visit to Jakarta, Reinfeldt also met with the Union Representative for Human Rights in Indonesia and the CEO of Astra Group.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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