In Germany, public transport workers strike: Buses, subways, and trams nearly halted
BERLIN (AP) — Local buses, trams and subway trains were canceled in much of Germany on Friday as transport employees walked off the job in the country’s third transport-related strike in two weeks.
The Ver.di service workers’ union called for a “warning strike,” a common tactic in German contract negotiations, on Monday. Its deputy chair, Christine Behle, said that “the time has now come to exert more pressure on employers” as talks on new pay contracts for about 90,000 people employed by over 130 local transport operators have failed to make progress.
The exact demands and the length of Friday’s walkouts varied from place to place. In Berlin, workers with the local transport authority walked off the job until 10 a.m.; in Hamburg, Cologne, Hannover and elsewhere, the strike was to last all day. Bavaria, where there are no negotiations at present, was the only region not affected.
The dispute centers on demands for better working conditions, such as a shorter working week and extra compensation days for shift and night work.
In Germany, public transport workers strike: Demonstrators gather with strike signs on German roads. Photo : Social Media
Coinciding contract negotiations in the rail, airport and local transport sectors have made for a frustrating few weeks for German travers and commuters.
The German railway system is involved in a separate dispute that centers on a train drivers’ union’s demand for a shorter working week.
In an unrelated dispute that centers on pay demands, Ver.di on Thursday called security workers at most of Germany’s major airports out on a one-day strike that prompted widespread flight cancellations.
Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Diplomat Times staff and has been published from a syndicated feed.
Gas explosions in Kenya’s capital kill at least 2, injure others and send smoke rising over homes
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Gas explosions at an industrial building in Kenya’s capital killed two people, injured at least 29 others and sent a fiery smoke plume rising over homes early Friday, authorities said.
The deaths of an adult and a minor were confirmed as of 4:30 a.m. and the toll may rise as the day breaks, said Wesley Kimeto, police chief for the Embakasi neighborhood where the explosions occurred.
A company was refilling gas cylinders when the fire started and it badly damaged the building where the company was based, government spokesman Isaac Mwaura said.
The fire started around midnight, and firefighters Friday morning were still putting out flames that had spread to nearby warehouses. The initial cause of the fire was unknown.
Kenya Red Cross ferried 29 injured people, the organization posted on its X social media account.
Nairobi residents who took several videos of the fire with their phones were heard speaking in concerned tones, some of them screaming.
Neighbor Caroline Karanja said they had to run away after the explosion after police cordoned off the entire area.
“Police were turning away everyone and so it was difficult to access my house and I had to seek a place to sleep until this morning,” Karanja said. She said the smell and smoke were still choking, and she would have to stay away for a while because she had young children.
The proximity of the industrial company to residences raised questions about enforcement of city plans. Officials at the county government have been accused of taking bribes to overlook building codes and regulations.
Malaysia’s new king is an outspoken billionaire in a role with growing political influence
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — The billionaire sultan who rules Malaysia’s Johor state was sworn in as the nation’s new king Wednesday under a unique rotating monarchy system.
Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, 65, took his oath of office at the palace and signed the instrument of the proclamation of office in a ceremony witnessed by other royal families, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Cabinet members. A coronation ceremony will be held later.
One of the richest men in the country, Sultan Ibrahim has an extensive business empire ranging from real estate to telecoms and power plants. The candid monarch has close ties with Anwar and his rule could bolster Anwar’s unity government, which faces a strong Islamic opposition.
Nine ethnic Malay state rulers have taken turns as king for five-year terms under the world’s only such system since Malaysia gained independence from Britain in 1957. Malaysia has 13 states but only nine have royal families, some that trace their roots to centuries-old Malay kingdoms that were independent states until they were brought together by the British.
Sultan Ibrahim’s election to the national throne by his fellow rulers in October was widely expected based on an established rotation order. Sultan Nazrin Shah, the ruler of Perak state and next in line to the throne, was reelected as deputy king.
WHAT IS THE KING’S ROLE?
Known as the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, or He Who is Made Lord, the king plays a largely ceremonial role, as administrative power is vested in the prime minister and Parliament. The monarch is the nominal head of the government and armed forces, and is highly regarded as the protector of Islam and Malay tradition. All laws, Cabinet appointments and the dissolution of Parliament for general elections require his assent. The king has the power to proclaim an emergency and pardon criminals.
Sultan Ibrahim succeeded Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang state, who presided over a tumultuous period that included COVID-19 lockdowns and political instability.
Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, left, salutes the guard of honor besides Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at National Palace in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024. (Hasnoor Hussain/Pool Photo via AP)
Military band perform during a welcoming ceremony of the 17th King of Malaysia, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar at National Palace in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024. (Hasnoor Hussain/Pool Photo via AP)
The political influence of the king has grown in recent years. Sultan Abdullah intervened in the past to decide who became prime minister, including naming Anwar as prime minister after 2022 general elections led to a hung parliament.
Sultan Ibrahim has indicated he will maintain a hands-on approach. He said in an interview with the Singapore Straits Times published last month that he would not want to waste five years on the throne as a “puppet king” but will focus on fighting graft and deepening unity in the country. The sultan and other rulers have also warned against attempts by the opposition to oust Anwar’s government, calling instead for political stability.
WHO IS SULTAN IBRAHIM?
Sultan Ibrahim, whose mother is English, is also vocal about welfare issues and takes annual road trips on his motorbike to meet the people in his state.
He has also made no secret of his wealth. Earlier Wednesday, the sultan flew from Johor to Kuala Lumpur on his private jet, a gold -and-blue Boeing 737. Apart from a fleet of jets, he has an extensive collection of cars and motorcycles, as well as properties abroad. Sultan Ibrahim is also the only ruler with a private army — a condition agreed upon for the state to join modern-day Malaysia.
Sultan Ibrahim’s high corporate profile — including a stake in the multibillion-dollar Forest City development project in Johor with China’s beleaguered developer Country Garden — has raised eyebrows amid concerns of a possible conflict of interest. He told the Singapore Straits Times that he plans to revive a high-speed rail link project with Singapore and bolster the troubled Forest City project.
But the sultan has defended his business dealings. In 2015, he quipped that he has to “earn a living, like ordinary Malaysians” as he cannot rely on his 27,000 ringgit ($5,700) monthly state allowance.
His wife Raja Zarith Sofiah, who is from another royal family, is an Oxford graduate and a prolific writer who has authored several children’s books. They have five sons and a daughter.
Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Diplomat Times staff and has been published from a syndicated feed.
Biden issues order at Israeli settlers who perpetrate violence in West Bank
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is expected to issue an executive order targeting Israeli settlers in the West Bank who have been attacking Palestinianns in the occupied territory, according to four people familiar with the matter.
A senior administration official, who like the others was not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity, said the White House was expected to announce the order later Thursday.
The order comes with Biden facing growing criticism for his administration’s strong support of Israel as casualties mount in the Israel-Hamas war. The move is rare step against America’s closest ally in the Mideast whom Biden says has the right to defend itself.
But the Democratic president has pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to show greater restraint in its military operations aimed at rooting out Hamas, the militant group that runs Gaza and struck Israel on Oct. 7.
Biden has spoken out against retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers and pledged that those those responsible for the violence will be held accountable. He said in late October that the violence by “extremist settlers” amounted to “pouring gasoline” on the already burning fires in the Middle East. “It has to stop. They have to be held accountable. It has to stop now,” Biden said.
Israel Defense Forces stepped up raids across the West Bank after the war began. Hamas militants are present in the West Bank, but largely operate underground because of Israel’s tight grip on the territory. Palestinians complain that the Israeli crackdown in the West Bank have further blurred the line between security forces and radical, violent settlers.
The executive order is expected to set the ground for imposing sanctions on individuals who have engaged in violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan met on Wednesday at the White House with Ron Dermer, the Israeli minister of strategic affair. It was not clear whether the executive order was discussed.
The order will give the Treasury Department the authority to impose financial sanctions on settlers, but is not meant to target U.S. citizens. A substantial number of the settlers in the West Bank hold U.S. citizenship.
Attacks by Israeli settlers have intensified since the war started, and some Palestinians have been killed, according to Palestinian authorities. Rights groups say settlers have torched cars and attacked several small Bedouin communities, forcing evacuations to other areas.
Biden’s expected order was first reported by Politico.
The new executive order comes as Biden was set to visit Michigan on Thursday to rally support from union members in a key presidential battleground state. The Democratic president has faced sharp criticism from Arab and Muslim leaders over his handling of the war with Hamas, and the shadow of the conflict has some Democrats worrying that it could have a major effect on the outcome in the November election.
The president’s campaign team has already seen alarming signs of the growing rift with Michigan’s Arab American community.
Last week, the president’s campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez traveled to suburban Detroit and found a number of community leaders unwilling to meet with her. Some frustrated by Biden’s Israel policy are working to discourage voters from supporting the president in the general election.
The State Department announced in December it would impose travel bans on extremist Jewish settlers implicated in a rash of recent attacks on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.
The department did not announce individual visa bans. But officials said at the time the bans would cover “dozens” of settlers and their families, with more to come if the violence continued.
AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report.
(This story has not been created by Diplomat Times’s staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed, edit by Endrit Pjetri )
Minister of State for External Affairs, Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh attended the Indonesia-India Business Forum in New Delhi
New Delhi, INDIA (DT) – Minister of State for External Affairs, Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, participated in the Indonesia-India Business Forum held in New Delhi.
The forum served as a platform to bolster economic ties and foster greater collaboration between the two nations. Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations, highlighting the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships across various sectors.
The event witnessed discussions on key areas of cooperation, including trade, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Representatives from both Indonesian and Indian business communities exchanged ideas and explored opportunities for enhancing economic engagement. Dr. Singh reiterated India’s commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with Indonesia and promoting greater economic integration between the two countries.
India and Indonesia established diplomatic relations in 1951. Both countries are neighbours, India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands share a maritime border with Indonesia along the Andaman Sea.
The Indian-Indonesian relationship stretches back for almost two millennia. In 1950, the first President of Indonesia, Sukarno, called upon the peoples of Indonesia and India to “intensify the cordial relations” that had existed between the two countries “for more than 1000 years” before they had been “disrupted” by colonial powers.
India has an embassy in Jakarta and Indonesia operates an embassy in Delhi. India regards Indonesia as a key member of ASEAN. Both nations had agreed to establish a strategic partnership. The two countries have significant bilateral trade.
India and Indonesia are among the largest democracies in the world. Both are member states of the G-20, the E7 (countries), the Non-aligned Movement, and the United Nations.
El Salvador’s Bukele has everyone’s attention as he seeks reelection in spite of the constitution
SAN SALVADOR (AP) — Love him or hate him, all eyes are on Nayib Bukele.
To many, El Salvador’s president is a national hero who took on the country’s violent gangs with an unrelenting hand. To others, the populist is a 21st century autocrat who has committed mass human rights abuses and has altered the rules of the game to concentrate power in his own hands.
Bukele has captured the world’s attention in a way few other Latin American leaders have in recent times.
The self-described “world’s coolest dictator” is likely to easily skate into a second presidential term in the election Sunday. After sidestepping El Salvador’s constitution prohibiting reelection in six different places, Bukele has the support of from seven to nine of every 10 voters, according to recent polling.
Alex Cisneros is among those who plan to vote for Bukele, many saying they have few options after years of corruption and violence under El Salvador’s traditional parties.
“He’s done many good things and many bad things,” said Cisneros, 32. “People criticize him, but he’s at least changed something.”
Growing up in one of the most dangerous areas of San Salvador, Cisneros fled to the U.S. when he was 20 after his cousin was slain by the Mara Salvatrucha gang. Now back home, he says he was disturbed when police jailed an elderly neighbor for protecting her son, a likely gang member, but he adds he can walk the streets freely at night for the first time in his life.
Bukele’s almost certain victory will further cement his grip on power as his tough tactics ripple out from this small Central American nation to other places with their own security crises like Ecuador, Honduras and the Dominican Republic. That worries rights advocates across the region.
Tyler Mattiace, Americas researcher at Human Rights Watch, considers Bukele “one of the biggest risks for human rights and for democracy that we see in Latin America right now.”
Patrons sit at a food store decorated with a mural of El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, who is running for re-election, in downtown San Salvador, El Salvador, Monday, Jan. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
“Bukele is incredibly popular, not only at home in El Salvador,” Mattiace said. “We see a growing number of people in countries across Latin America who are supporting this kind of authoritarian populism because they believe that it could be the only way to address rising levels of violence.”
When he was first elected in 2019, Bukele, a former publicity manager of Palestinian descent, became Latin America’s youngest leader. Fond of spectacle, he has attracted some of the world’s biggest names, recently hosting the Miss Universe pageant and pulling in soccer star Lionel Messi to play a pre-season match.
But his rise to wide recognition came in 2022 with his harsh war on the gangs that had long terrorized El Salvador.
Under a state of emergency, his government has locked up 76,000 people — more than 1% of the population — in prisons where rights groups have documented cases of torture and the deaths of more than 150 inmates. The government also has been accused of systematic human rights abuses.
In an interview with The Associated Press on Tuesday, Bukele’s vice presidential running mate, Félix Ulloa, acknowledged the government “made mistakes” in detaining thousands of people who had committed no crimes. He also conceded officials may have set arrest quotas.
But he denied the government has suspended the rights of “honorable” Salvadorans. He justified the crackdown as being for the greater good of the country and widely popular.
“This is not a police state, it’s a state that provides security,” Ulloa said.
El Salvador’s homicide rate has shriveled to among the lowest in the Americas, when just a few years ago the country was deemed one of the most dangerous places in the world.
A mural promoting President Nayib Bukele, who is running for re-election, is displayed on the facade of a condominium in the Mejicanos suburb of San Salvador, El Salvador, Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Salvador Melendez)
In fulfilling his promise to bring security, something the country’s two traditional parties failed at, Bukele has gained the adoration of millions of Salvadorans like Paola Ventura.
The shop where the 25-year-old works in downtown San Salvador is plastered with the president’s face, on hats and soccer jerseys reading “Bukele 2024.” It also once stocked Bukele scarves and blankets, but they were all bought up by customers visiting from other countries.
Ventura said her boss also painted an entire wall of his nearby pupusa restaurant with a mural of Bukele, which has drawn in customers.
“He’s famous,” she said. “Bukele’s face sells.”
Others told AP they were too scared to talk about the election because of the mass detentions.
Bukele has pinned his campaign on the gang crackdown, warning Salvadorans that if his New Ideas party doesn’t win the election, the “war with the gangs would be put at risk.”
“The opposition will be able to achieve its true and only plan, to free the gang members and use them to return to power,” he said in one video as his message is spread widely on television, radio and social media.
Less visible to voters are the long-term democratic risks that come with the charismatic leader, constitutional lawyers, analysts and opposition politicians say.
As Bukele has grown more popular, he and his party have concentrated control over every branch of El Salvador’s government.
In 2020, Bukele entered the Legislative Assembly with soldiers after lawmakers balked at approving a security loan proposal. He clashed repeatedly with the then opposition-controlled congress during the pandemic when he tried to impose some of the regions toughest restrictions and lawmakers refused to grant him emergency powers.
When his party romped to victory in 2021 legislative elections, the newly elected congress purged the country’s constitutional court, replacing judges with loyalists who later ruled that Bukele could run for a second term despite the constitutional ban on reelection.
Supporters of El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele campaign for his re-election in San Salvador, El Salvador, Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Bukele recently made electoral changes, slashing the number of municipalities in a way that analysts say further stacks the odds in his favor, particularly in congressional and local elections to be held in March.
The president has built a sophisticated communication machine pumping out highly produced government propaganda while his government has harassed journalists, political opponents and critics.
“These cumulative actions, the reforms, they’re part of a strategy. The idea is to have complete political control … and make any opposition basically null,” said Oscar Picardo, director of investigations at El Salvador’s Universidad Francisco Gavidia.
Bukele’s running mate denies the government has made any undemocratic moves to consolidate power. “There is nothing that we have done that does not have a legal foundation,” Ulloa told AP on Tuesday.
Seeing Bukele’s soaring popularity, some leaders in the region have turned to “The Bukele Model” for solutions to their own security crises.
In neighboring Honduras, following a brutal prison massacre by gangs, the government rounded up gangsters and vowed it would lock them up on a remote island prison.
With Haiti beset with a growing security crisis, in the neighboring Dominican Republic, highly popular leader Luis Abinader has increasingly mirrored Bukele’s discourse while pushing his own “fight against crime.”
As Ecuador staggers from a surge of violent crime, new President Daniel Noboa has annouced a crackdown on multiplying gangs, with dramatic scenes of police raids similar to the early days of Bukele’s state of emergency.
Bukele may be popular at home and abroad, but some Salvadorans feel he has spent too much time focused on his global image, and not enough on the country’s core problems like poverty, which has pushed Salvadorans to migrate for generations.
Despite efforts to project prosperity — adopting Bitcoin as an official currency and hosting a slew of international events — economic growth in El Salvador has largely stalled while inflation has jumped globally. Around half of Salvadorans faced food insecurity in 2023.
Julio Eduardo Durán, 57, has spent 40 years selling and fixing watches and has seen his earnings plummet since the government kicked walking vendors out of the capital’s main plaza in an effort to clean up the area.
“They’ve forgotten the poor,” Durán said. “Our government doesn’t help us at all, it’s all a lie. They want El Salvador to be like the United States, but we’re going hungry.”
Durán would not say how he would vote on Sunday’s election.
Diplomat Times Editor Shasi Kumar Engages with Indonesian MFA Director General H.E. Abdul Kadir Jailani to Delve into India-Indonesia Relations
NEW DELHI/JAKARTA (DT) – In a bid to deepen understanding and foster stronger ties between India and Indonesia, Shasi Kumar, Editor of Diplomat Times, recently engaged in discussions with H.E. Abdul Kadir Jailani, Director General(APA) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Indonesia.
The meeting, held at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Headquarters aimed to explore various facets of the bilateral relationship between the two nations. With India and Indonesia sharing historical, cultural, and economic bonds, DG acknowledged the importance of enhancing cooperation across diverse sectors.
During the dialogue, Editor Shasi Kumar and Director General Abdul Kadir Jailani exchanged insights on the potential areas of collaboration between India and Indonesia. They emphasized the significance of diplomatic efforts in promoting trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchanges to further strengthen bilateral relations.
In his speech video, Director General emphasized that Indonesia and India are more than just close friends, but have become special strategic partners.
Q. What initiatives is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia undertaking to attract tourists from India ?
Ans. He highlighted that Bali draws a significant number of tourists from India, and our government’s policy of offering free visas to Indian travelers has contributed to an increase in the number of Indian travelers.
Facts. Indonesia is actively developing its tourism sector to significantly contribute to the national GDP. In 2022, the sector accounted for about 3.6 percent of GDP, equivalent to US$6.7 billion.
For 2024, Indonesia aims for 9.5 to 14.3 million foreign arrivals, aiming to contribute approximately 220 trillion rupiah (US$14.1 billion) to GDP.
The tourism industry presents lucrative opportunities for foreign investors, with a projected annual growth rate of 12.03 percent until 2026. This growth is driven not only by foreign tourists but also by domestic travelers. Infrastructure development and a growing middle class are key factors fueling the rise in domestic tourism. Indonesia recorded 734 million domestic trips in 2022, marking nearly a 20 percent increase from 2021.
Q. Were there any economic gains for Indonesia during its G20 presidency?
Ans. Yes, Indonesia experienced various economic benefits during its G20 presidency, including increased international visibility and opportunities for investment. The economic gains for Indonesia during its G20 presidency were significant, contributing to enhanced trade relations and diplomatic stature on the global stage. Indonesia’s G20 presidency led to economic advantages such as improved access to global markets and strengthened partnerships with other member countries. Indeed, Indonesia benefited economically from its G20 presidency through initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development and fostering economic cooperation among member nations.
Insights into the Family of Director General Abdul Kadi
As the conversation veered towards personal anecdotes, our editor gently broached the topic of family. With a candid smile, the seasoned diplomat revealed that he is a proud father of two sons, showcasing the human side behind his diplomatic persona.
His Excellency Abdul Kadri Jialani appears joyful while discussing family matters. Photo : Manvir Singh
“Galance the Life of H.E. Abdul Kadir Jailani Before His Appointment as Director General for Asia Pacific and Africa”
Abdul Kadir Jailani, the current Director General for Asia Pacific and Africa at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has been honored with the prestigious award for Best Ambassador in Southeast Asia during his tenure in Ottawa, Canada.
Before assuming his current role, Abdul Kadir Jailani served as the Indonesian Ambassador to Canada, where he exhibited exceptional diplomatic skills and fostered strong ties between Indonesia and Canada. His dedication to promoting bilateral relations and advancing mutual interests earned him recognition as an exemplary ambassador in Southeast Asia.
Renowned for his distinguished white hair, Abdul Kadir Jailani is esteemed as a skilled negotiator and diplomat, known for his adept use of social media in diplomatic endeavors.
During his tenure in Ottawa, Abdul Kadir Jailani played a pivotal role in strengthening diplomatic cooperation between Indonesia and Canada across various sectors, including trade, education, culture, and tourism. His efforts contributed significantly to enhancing the partnership between the two countries and deepening understanding between their peoples.
Prior to his ambassadorial role in Canada, Abdul Kadir Jailani also served as the Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), further showcasing his expertise and commitment to international diplomacy.
Throughout his distinguished career at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abdul Kadir Jailani has held key positions, including Director of Economic and Socio-Cultural Agreements and Deputy Director of Political and Security Agreements. His notable accomplishments have underscored Indonesia’s proactive engagement in regional and global affairs.
Abdul Kadir Jailani’s recognition as the Best Ambassador in Southeast Asia reflects his exemplary service, diplomatic finesse, and unwavering commitment to advancing Indonesia’s interests on the international stage. His contributions continue to inspire and set a high standard for diplomatic excellence in the region and beyond.
He shared insights about his diplomatic career with editor Kumar and said journey within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had been remarkable. Having completed his education from elementary school to university in East Java, he pursued his diploma education in Jakarta after college.
Commencing his career as a foreign service officer (diplomat) within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jailani assumed various pivotal roles. From diplomatic postings in the Netherlands to serving as an expert in disarmament at the United Nations in Geneva, his assignments were diverse. Subsequently, he assumed responsibilities at the Security Council in New York City, further enhancing his diplomatic expertise.
The historical background of relations between India and Indonesia
India and Indonesia established diplomatic relations in 1951. Both countries are neighbours, India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands share a maritime border with Indonesia along the Andaman Sea.
The Indian-Indonesian relationship stretches back for almost two millennia. In 1950, the first President of Indonesia, Sukarno, called upon the peoples of Indonesia and India to “intensify the cordial relations” that had existed between the two countries “for more than 1000 years” before they had been “disrupted” by colonial powers.
India has an embassy in Jakarta and Indonesia operates an embassy in Delhi. India regards Indonesia as a key member of ASEAN. Both nations had agreed to establish a strategic partnership. The two countries have significant bilateral trade.
India and Indonesia are among the largest democracies in the world. Both are member states of the G-20, the E7 (countries), the Non-aligned Movement, and the United Nations.
Some contents From Wikipedia and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Indonesia
Manvir/Rias Mansuri reported from Jakarta, and Roshan from New Delhi.
Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and BNI Encourage Collaboration for State-Owned Enterprises to Go Global on Indonesia Incorporated Day
Bali, INDONESIA (DT) – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, along with the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises and PT Bank Negara Indonesia Tbk (Persero), organized Indonesia Incorporated Day in Nusa Dua, Bali (27/1). Under the theme “Collaborating Towards State-Owned Enterprises To Go Global,” the event aims to foster collaboration among the government, state-owned enterprises (BUMN), private sector, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) to realise the vision of Indonesia Going Global.
The meeting was attended by 11 state-owned enterprises from strategic sectors, 5 private companies, and the Indonesia Eximbank. The event was opened by the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, Pahala Mansury, and the Secretary of the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises, Rabin Inrajad Hattari.
In his remarks, Vice Minister Mansury emphasised the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders to achieve the vision of Indonesia Going Global. It is hoped that Indonesia Incorporated Day can produce a joint action plan to achieve concrete deliverables. “The action plan resulting from Indonesia Going Global activities must be actionable, time-bound, and followed-up,” said Vice Minister Mansury.
Vice Minister Pahala outlined current geopolitical trends that should be a collective concern. Policies of de-risking and friendshoring, the competition between the United States and the People’s Republic of China, disruptions in trade routes, and the climate change crisis have a significant impact on the volatility of global economic growth. Moreover, the increasingly multi-polar world opens opportunities for Indonesia and other developing countries (Global South) to advocate for economic interests, including promoting downstream industries.
In response to these dynamics, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is in the process of formulating the Grand Design of Economic Diplomacy (GDDE) to support Indonesia’s economic transformation to achieve developed country status by 2045.
Efforts towards global economic integration, market access expansion, and the involvement of state-owned enterprises and the private sector are crucial factors in the Indonesia Going Global initiative.
The implementation of GDDE is expected to realise national energy, food, and health security, as well as secure critical mineral needs.
According to the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises, the Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of strengthening the narrative to compete on the international trade map. “Stories matter. What we tell to our audiences matters. Therefore, the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises is ready to contribute to strengthening Indonesia’s branding narrative,” said the Deputy Minister.
According to the President Director of BNI, Royke Tumilaar, Indonesia Incorporated Day marks a crucial moment in Indonesia’s global aspirations.
BNI is ready to support collaborative efforts between the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other relevant institutions.
One manifestation of BNI’s commitment is by offering the Global Diaspora Banking Solution and fully leading the development of private business and Indonesian SMEs abroad, as explained by the Director of Wholesale & International Banking, Silvano Rumantir.
All participants in the event presented strategies, priorities, challenges, and proposals for strengthening economic diplomacy cooperation. This activity also resulted in an Action Plan document that identifies opportunities and challenges, as well as priority projects for state-owned enterprises that can be pursued in potential countries.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and BNI are spearheading efforts to foster collaboration among state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to expand their global presence on Indonesia Incorporated Day.
This initiative aims to strengthen Indonesia’s economic footprint on the global stage and promote the competitiveness of its SOEs in international markets.
Ministry’s diplomatic networks to facilitate global partnerships and market access for these enterprises.
ASEAN has concurred to allow Laos to continue the outcomes of Indonesia’s chairmanship
LUANG PRABANG, LAOS (AGENCIES) – ASEAN Foreign Ministers held the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ (AMM) Retreat in Luang Prabang, Laos, on (29/1).
The first ministerial-level meeting under Laos’ chairmanship agreed to continue the outcomes of Indonesia’s chairmanship from the previous year.
“Some of the agreements from the AMM Retreat include the continuity of various deliverables from Indonesia’s chairmanship last year, including support for the continuation of the ASEAN-Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF) and the ongoing implementation of the ASEAN Human Rights Dialogue,” said Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi in a press statement after the meeting.
Additionally, the meeting agreed to continue prioritising the maritime agenda in ASEAN to promote regional maritime stability and cooperation, including blue economy initiatives and the organisation of the ASEAN Maritime Forum (AMF)/Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum (EAMF).
Another agreement is to continue emphasising the implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) in various ASEAN-led mechanisms. In this regard, Indonesia’s Concept Note on AOIP-based Comprehensive Regional Architecture has been approved for further discussion.
The meeting also expressed support for the China-Japan-ROK Trilateral Summit plan. Regarding Palestine, the meeting conveyed concerns and a call for an immediate cessation of violence and a ceasefire in Gaza. It strongly condemned acts of violence against civilians, expressed support for a two-state solution, and urged Israel to comply with the International Court of Justice’s decision on Gaza.
The AMM Retreat was divided into two sessions: Session I discussed Laos’ priorities as the ASEAN Chair and follow-ups from the previous summit, including the implementation of the 5PC, while Session II addressed regional and international situations.
In Session I, Indonesia expressed support for Laos’ chairmanship this year. Indonesia also highlighted several important matters that need to be addressed under Laos’ chairmanship.
Regarding the situation in Myanmar, Indonesia welcomed the reaffirmed commitment of ASEAN foreign ministers to make the 5PC the primary reference for ASEAN’s efforts to help Myanmar out of the crisis. Indonesia also conveyed all notes on addressing Myanmar’s issues during Indonesia’s chairmanship last year to Laos as the Chair this year.
“Indonesia also expects no permissive actions that could hinder or setback the implementation of the 5PC. Engagement with stakeholders must be done carefully to avoid being politically capitalised by certain stakeholders,” said the Foreign Minister.
Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara,left,shakes hands with Laos’Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers retreat meeting in Luang Prabang, Laos, Monday, Jan.29,2024. Photo : Sakchai Lalit/AP
Indonesia expressed its readiness to contribute through the troika mechanism. Discussions within this troika mechanism are expected not only to be limited to consultations but also to include coordinating humanitarian assistance and facilitating inclusive dialogue.”
China Sea, seeking to “enhance favorable conditions for a peaceful and durable solution of differences and disputes,” but there has been little sign of adherence to that in recent years.
In Luang Prabang, the group “underscored the importance of the full and effective” implementation of the declaration, according to a statement issued by Laos after the talks.
“We reaffirmed the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, security, stability, safety and freedom of navigation in, and overflight above, the South China Sea,” it said.
Under last year’s chair, Indonesia, ASEAN agreed with China on guidelines to accelerate negotiations for a South China Sea code of conduct, but that has yet to produce results.
In the talks Monday, Saleumxay said several ASEAN nations brought up the tensions in the South China Sea and that Laos hoped to have a third reading of the code of conduct with China “as soon as possible.”
“That would create an environment where both ASEAN member states, especially the claimant states, and China can build more trust and confidence,” he said. “Whatever happens in the South China Sea should be resolved in a peaceful manner through dialogue and consultations.”
Saleumxay said all sides with claims in the South China Sea need to respect the United Nations convention on the law of the sea.
Under that convention, a U.N.-backed tribunal ruled in 2016 that China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea on historical grounds were invalid and that Beijing had violated the right of Filipinos to fish in the shoal.
China has refused to participate in the arbitration, rejected its outcome and continues to defy it.
Pakistani court sentences former Prime Minister Imran Khan to 10 years for revealing state secrets
ISLAMABAD (AP) — A Pakistani court on Tuesday sentenced former Prime Minister Imran Khan and one of his party deputies to 10 years in prison each, after finding them guilty of revealing official secrets.
According to Zulfiqar Bukhari, spokesman for Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, the court announced the verdict at a prison in the garrison city of Rawalpindi.
Khan, who was ousted through a no-confidence vote in Parliament in April 2022, is currently serving a three-year prison sentence in a graft case.
The latest development comes ahead of the Feb. 8 parliamentary elections in Pakistan — a vote that Khan is barred from running in because of his previous criminal conviction.
Authorities say Khan and his deputy who also received a 10-year sentence, Shah Mahmood Qureshi ,have the right to appeal Tuesday’s ruling in the case, popularly known as the Cipher case.
Although Khan will not be on the ballot for the Febuary election, he remains a potent political force because of his grassroots following and anti-establishment rhetoric. He says the legal cases against him were a plot to sideline him ahead of the vote.
Pakistan has seen violent demonstrations since after Khan’s May 2023 arrest. Authorities have cracked down on his supporters and party since then.
Pakistan’s independent human rights commission has said there is little chance of a free and fair parliamentary election next month because of “pre-poll rigging.” It also expressed concern about authorities rejecting the candidacies of Khan and senior figures from his party.
The Cipher case is one of more than 150 cases pending against Khan, a former cricket star turned Islamist politician. Other charges range from contempt of court to terrorism and inciting violence.
Khan is alleged to have waved a confidential document during a rally after he was toppled as premier, claiming that it was proof he was being threatened and that his ouster was a U.S. conspiracy, allegedly executed by the military and the government in Pakistan. Washington and Pakistani officials have denied the claim.
The document he waved — dubbed Cipher — has not been made public by either the government or Khan’s lawyers but was apparently diplomatic correspondence between the Pakistani ambassador to Washington and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad.
