Chinese Premier Li Qiang's recent visit to Indonesia marks a significant milestone in Sino-Indonesian relations, ushering in a new era of cooperation and mutual prosperity. Arriving on September 5, Premier Li attended the 26th China-ASEAN Summit, the 26th ASEAN Plus Three Summit, and the 18th East Asia Summit, highlighting the deepening ties between the two nations.
One of the standout achievements of this visit was Premier Li's test ride aboard the groundbreaking Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR) on September 6. Stretching over 142.3 kilometers with a remarkable design speed of 350 km/h, this HSR line is Southeast Asia's first of its kind. By slashing the travel time between Jakarta and Bandung from over three hours to just 40 minutes, the HSR exemplifies the tangible benefits of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Premier Li emphasized that the HSR is more than just a transportation project; it's a pathway towards greater integration, openness, and shared prosperity. The railway not only bridges the spatial and temporal gaps between cities but also stimulates industrial advancements and economic growth along its route.
Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia, Lu Kang, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the HSR's role in enhancing livelihoods and fostering mutually beneficial outcomes. The infrastructure project stands as a testament to the fruitful bilateral cooperation and sets the stage for further collaborative efforts.
In his dialogue with Indonesian President Joko Widodo on September 8, Premier Li proposed three key suggestions aimed at deepening the partnership between China and Indonesia. While the specifics of these suggestions were not detailed, they underscore the commitment of both nations to expanding their cooperative endeavors across various sectors.
This visit not only strengthens the economic bonds between China and Indonesia but also paves the way for innovative collaborations that cater to the dynamic needs of a globally connected audience. As the HSR becomes operational, it is set to transform travel, boost economies, and inspire further projects that align with the aspirations of young global citizens, business and tech enthusiasts, and changemakers worldwide.
Reference(s):
China-Indonesia ties: A new era of cooperation and mutual prosperity
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