Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) welcomed the Royal of Norwegian prime minister Erna Solberg in a state ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Central Jakarta on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Ernas first visit to Indonesia is to consolidate and develop good bilateral relations between the two countries, and to strengthen Norwegian engagement in the region through dialogues with one of Asias most influential countries.

The visit is also aimed at highlighting the work of the UN Secretary Generals Millennium Development Goals Advocacy Group, and to foster the dynamic climate and cooperation in the forestry sector between Indonesia and Norway.

Promoting stronger economic ties and encouraging negotiations on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with Indonesia is also on the agenda, along with resuming discussions on the European Free Trade Association, which involves Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

The visit also aims at opening doors for Norwegian industries to Indonesia, and at facilitating and strengthening business relations between the two nations.

This is the first visit of the Norwegian prime minister to Indonesia during Joko Widodos term.

Source: ANTARA