The 2nd Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) and the High-Level Forum on Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships (HLF-MSP) 2024, held in Bali from September 1-3, 2024, marked a significant moment for Indonesia to showcase its strategic role in strengthening global cooperation across various sectors, particularly among Global South countries.

In addition to the IAF, President Joko Widodo also inaugurated the High-Level Forum on Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships (HLF-MSP), which was held concurrently in Bali. This forum serves as a platform to bolster multi-stakeholder partnerships in addressing increasingly complex global challenges.

"We need new strategies to achieve more just and inclusive development for developing countries," stated President Jokowi.

The 2nd IAF, themed "Bandung Spirit for Africa's Agenda 2063," served as a reminder of the historical ties established since the 1955 Asian-African Conference. The forum focused on four priority sectors: food security, energy, health, and minerals.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Pahala Mansury, explained that the 2nd IAF provided opportunities for Indonesia and African countries to deepen cooperation in these sectors.

"African countries have great potential to diversify Indonesia's export and investment markets," said Pahala.

Moreover, the 2nd IAF is expected to result in Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with a total value of up to USD 3.5 billion, which will promote mutually beneficial economic growth between Indonesia and African countries.

Meanwhile, the HLF-MSP 2024, held alongside the 2nd IAF, reaffirmed Indonesia's position as a leader in efforts to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The forum brought together around 1,000 participants from various countries and international organizations to discuss pressing global issues, including efforts to bridge the development gap between the Global South and the North.

Hendra Wahanu Prabandani, Director of Foreign Policy and International Development Cooperation at the Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas, emphasized that the HLF-MSP 2024 serves as tangible evidence of Indonesia's leadership in fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships.

"This forum acts as a catalyst for innovative solutions to global challenges, while strengthening Indonesia's role as a leader in achieving the SDGs," stated Hendra.

These two forums, the 2nd IAF and HLF-MSP 2024, not only strengthened diplomatic relations between Indonesia and African countries but also reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to advocating for justice and inclusiveness in international cooperation.

With these successes, Indonesia further solidifies its position as an active global leader in advancing South-South cooperation and providing solutions to complex global challenges.

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