RI-Mexico Agree To Establish Comprehensive Partnership

Jakarta, Oct 7 (Antara) - Mexico and Indonesia agreed to establish a comprehensive partnership as recognition of the strategic value of the bilateral relations by enhancing political dialogue at all level, promoting connectivity, trade and investment. In addition, the two countries were reported to expand technical cooperation, social-cultural exchanges and health, sports, education and people-to-people contacts, the leaders of the two countries said in a joint statement received from Bali on Monday. Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto was in Indonesia to pay a working visit in exchange of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono`s visit to that country in 2008 in addition to attending the APEC Summit in Bali. The two heads of states also expressed strong commitments to extend bilateral relationship in line with the principles of mutual respect, mutual benefit and interest, thus reiterating their government`s respect for each other`s national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The leaders also reiterated their commitment to good governance, social justice, democracy and respect for human rights, as marked with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Indonesian General Elections Commission and the Mexican Federal Institute of Election in Cooperation in the Field of Electoral Management and Administration this year reflects the common values on democracy. Indonesia also welcomed Mexico�s interest to participate in the Bali Democracy Forum. More important, the leaders also welcomed the positive developments in trade and economic relations and committed to open market, enhance trade facilitation and promote ease of doing business. Hence they felt necessary to encourage more investment flows between the two countries and reaffirmed their commitments to promote favorable investment climate. Recognizing the important role played by both countries as economic powerhouse in Asia and Latin America, the leaders also agreed to promote connectivity of the two regions through air service linkages, eliminating travel barriers and facilitating business communities. The two presidents also reaffirmed the need to further explore cooperation in the areas of education, technical and science, forestry, environment, natural resources and health. Acknowledging the dynamic population, rich history and vibrant culture, they noted the importance of the dissemination of cultural, archaeological and historical heritage of the two nations, thus welcoming enhanced cooperation between the two countries in the field of anthropology and museum exhibitions.