Dr. (H.C.) Puan Maharani

Speaker of Second Meeting of Indonesia - Pacific Parliamentary Partnership

Greetings from Jakarta,

It is my great honor to welcome you to the second Indonesia – Pacific Parliamentary Partnership (IPPP). Our first IPPP meeting in 2018 laid a strong foundation for legislative cooperation and people-to-people engagement among the parliaments of Pacific Island nations and Indonesia. Today, as we reconvene, we aim to build upon that foundation and address the pressing challenges that our region faces.

The ocean has always been a vital element in shaping our civilizations and fostering relations among our nations. It continues to play a pivotal role in commerce, transportation, and as a symbol of globalization. The Pacific Ocean, in particular, is strategically significant, influencing marine biodiversity, food and energy security, and international trade.

As island nations, we share common geographical challenges and vulnerabilities. The recent COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid consequences of climate change have exacerbated these challenges, impacting tourism, fisheries, and critical components of global trade and transportation systems. Natural disasters such as cyclones, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions further underscore our need for resilient and cooperative strategies.

The IPPP aligns with our global commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 14, which emphasizes the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and marine resources. By leveraging our shared maritime heritage and capacity for marine stewardship, we can drive economic growth, social development, and regional connectivity.

Our discussions will focus on key issues such as fostering connectivity and inclusive development, managing our seas sustainably, and harnessing maritime potentials for economic growth. We will explore the opportunities and challenges of realizing connectivity in the Pacific region and emphasize the role of cultures, arts, and people-to-people relations in promoting closer interaction and engagement.

As we embark on this journey together, I encourage all participants to actively engage in these discussions, share their insights, and work collaboratively towards our common goals. By strengthening our parliamentary cooperation, we can ensure a more connected, resilient, and prosperous future for our region.

We look forward to productive discussions and the development of concrete actions that will further our collective prosperity. Thank you for your commitment and participation in the second IPPP.

Dr. Fadli Zon

Chair of The Committee for Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

Greetings!

It is with great pleasure and a profound sense of responsibility that I welcome you to the second Indonesia–Pacific Parliamentary Partnership (IPPP). Our inaugural meeting in 2018 marked the beginning of a journey towards deeper cooperation and dialogue among the parliaments of the Pacific Island nations and Indonesia. Today, we continue this journey with renewed commitment and a shared vision for our region’s future.

The challenges faced by our region are both unique and significant. As island nations, we are acutely aware of the impacts of climate change, natural disasters, and the recent global pandemic on our economies and communities. These challenges underscore the importance of our collaboration and the need for innovative and sustainable solutions.

The second IPPP meeting provides a crucial platform for us to address these challenges collectively. Our discussions will focus on key themes such as human development, maritime sustainability, and the promotion of inclusive growth. By sharing our experiences and best practices, we can develop strategies that benefit all our nations.

Our objectives for this meeting are clear:

1. Reaffirming Our Commitment to Cooperation: Strengthening the bonds between our parliaments and ensuring that our collaboration is resilient and impactful.
2. Fostering Regional Connectivity: Exploring practical measures to enhance connectivity across our region, facilitating better interaction and cooperation among our nations.
3. Promoting Sustainable Development: Addressing shared environmental and economic challenges to create a more equitable and prosperous future for all our peoples.

The theme of this partnership aligns with our global commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 14, which emphasizes the sustainable use and conservation of our oceans. By working together, we can harness the potential of our marine resources while ensuring their protection for future generations.

We also recognize the importance of human capital in driving economic growth and development. Investing in education, capacity building, and the empowerment of our people, particularly women and marginalized communities, is essential for achieving our shared goals.

As we gather for this important meeting, I encourage all participants to engage actively and share their insights. Let us build on the foundations laid in our first meeting and work towards tangible outcomes that will strengthen our region’s resilience and prosperity.

Thank you for your dedication and participation in the second IPPP. Together, we can make a significant difference for our region and its future.