FAO Representative Mark Smulders presented credentials to the Government of Indonesia in a meeting with Indonesian Vice Foreign Minister, His Excellency A.M. Fachir in his office on Friday.

AM Fachir said he expected the presence of the new FAO Representative will strengthen the cooperation between FAO and Indonesia, especially in the issues of food security, maritime cooperation and capacity building. "FAO's representation in Indonesia is more important today than ever, particularly, to support Indonesia's diplomatic focus on economic cooperation to improve the people's prosperity."

Smulders said there is an enormous potential for cooperation between Indonesia and FAO in the areas mentioned above, adding that cooperation in the blue economy framework, the rice initiative, South-South Cooperation, will also empower Indonesia's economic potential. FAO will continue to provide technical assistance, especially in food and agriculture sectors.

Smulders stated he hoped bilateral cooperation between Indonesia Government and FAO would deepen through the establishment of a "New Partnership and Liason office."