Iran, Indonesia united against unilateralism, back lasting peace in region: Raeisi

Raeisi made the remarks in a news briefing at Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport on Monday, before leaving the Iranian capital for Jakarta at the head of a high-ranking delegation for an official visit at the invitation of his Indonesian counterpart, Joko Widodo.

“Indonesia is an important country in Southeast Asia and has an important position in regional and international developments,” Raeisi told reporters.

“As the most Muslim-populated country, Indonesia has deep and long-standing relations with the Islamic Republic,” he said, adding, “In addition to the diplomatic relations between the two countries since 70 years ago, deep cultural and historical ties have also been established between the two nations.”

The Iranian president said economic and trade relations between the two countries were significant, but they were not acceptable and should be promoted.

Raeisi also underlined the signing of memorandums of understanding in economic, commercial, customs, transit, cultural and health fields during his two day-trip to the Southeast Asian country.

“Iran and Indonesia have common views on regional and international issues; both countries are against unilateralism and in favor of sustainable peace and security in the region, and these common views bring the two countries closer together,” he noted.

Pointing to the Islamic Republic’s policy of promoting neighborly relations, Raeisi expressed hope that the trip will be a “turning point” in the development of relations between Iran and Indonesia.

During his visit to the Southeast Asian country, the Iranian president will hold meetings with the speakers of House of Representatives and the People’s Consultative Assembly of Indonesia.

Raeisi will also meet with Iranian and Indonesian businessmen, hold talks with Indonesian scholars and thinkers, and meet with Iranians residing in Indonesia.