Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has praised Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals Program initiated by President Prabowo Subianto as a concrete example of the country’s national development efforts to improve the well-being of its citizens. During a bilateral meeting at the Merdeka Palace, Albanese emphasized the significance of this initiative in Indonesia’s broader transformation agenda. He commended the hard work and aspirations of the Indonesian people, recognizing programs like the free nutritious meals initiative as crucial for enhancing the quality of life.
Albanese also recognized Indonesia’s vital role in the Indo-Pacific region, highlighting its increasing influence in promoting peace, prosperity, and stability. He stressed the strategic importance of Indonesia’s rapid progress not only for the region but also for Australia’s bilateral relations with the country. The leaders discussed strengthening strategic cooperation between Australia and Indonesia, with a focus on defense, trade, investment, as well as Indonesia’s goals to join the OECD and the CPTPP.
The Australian Prime Minister highlighted the partnership’s basis on shared values, mutual respect, and a vision for inclusive regional development. He underscored the historical ties between Australia and Indonesia, tracing back to Indonesia’s fight for independence. Albanese emphasized the importance of collaboration between Australians and Indonesians, working together to bolster stability, prosperity, and security in the cherished region.
