Encouraging Defense Cooperation, Indonesia-Turkey Relations Become Closer at the 19th PUIC

Jakarta – The 19th Meeting of the Parliamentary Union of Member States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (PUIC) at the Nusantara Building, Senayan, Jakarta, became an important momentum for strengthening bilateral relations between Indonesia and Turkey, especially in the defense and economic sectors.

The Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Mardani Ali Sera, conveyed the importance of increasing strategic cooperation between the two countries in the Bilateral Meeting with the Turkish Parliamentary Delegation. He highlighted the great opportunities for collaboration in the field of defense technology, especially drone development.

“The meeting with the representative of the Turkish Parliament, Professor Abdurrahman Dusak, was extraordinary. He raised how defense cooperation between Indonesia and Turkey can be more optimal,” said Mardani.

He explained that Indonesia has a great opportunity to not only become a market, but also a production partner.

“Mr. Prabowo even developed a special division for this drone. We have the opportunity not only to import, but also to collaborate with Turkey to create the next generation of more sophisticated drones,” he explained.

In addition to defense, Mardani also emphasized the importance of accelerating the Indonesia-Turkey free trade agreement (FTA).

“Hopefully this year the Indonesia-Turkey free trade agreement can be signed, so that the complicated import duties and excise fees can be resolved quickly,” said the Legislator for DKI Jakarta I Electoral District.

He also suggested that visa and trade barriers between countries be removed for smoother relations.

“Turkey and Indonesia should have a more seamless relationship. There are no obstacles in visa matters or excise fees. This is our shared homework,” he said.

Meanwhile, in the 12th Conference of Muslim Women Parliamentarians forum, BKSAP Member Melly Goeslaw raised the issue of humanity in Palestine and Kashmir.

“I convey my concern over the humanitarian conflict that is happening in Palestine. This is a test of our shared values. There is no place more urgent than in Gaza,” he said.

He called for concrete action from OIC member states to protect women and children who are victims of armed conflict.