Lee Hsien Loong and Joko Widodo reflected on a decade of close cooperation and enduring bilateral friendship
Singapore’s former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong met Indonesia’s former President Joko Widodo over breakfast in Singapore, marking their first in-person catch-up since their previous meeting in Bogor in April 2024. The informal discussion reaffirmed the warm and longstanding relationship between the two leaders, who worked closely for a decade to strengthen cooperation between Singapore and Indonesia.
Mr Lee highlighted the productive years of partnership with Mr Widodo, noting that both sides had overcome challenges and advanced multiple areas of collaboration. Their tenure saw progress in trade, investment, defence cooperation, tourism, and the landmark agreements on airspace, defence and extradition. He expressed satisfaction that these efforts continued to support a stable and forward-looking bilateral relationship.
Mr Widodo was in Singapore to attend the Bloomberg New Economy Forum, which brought together regional and global leaders to discuss emerging economic trends. His visit provided an opportunity for both leaders to reconnect and exchange views on developments in the region.
Although both have stepped down from their previous roles, Mr Lee acknowledged Mr Widodo’s continued contributions in regional and international platforms. He noted that the former Indonesian President remained active and engaged in various initiatives following the conclusion of his presidency.
The breakfast meeting underscored the strength of Singapore–Indonesia ties and the personal rapport between the two statesmen, reflecting a partnership built on trust, mutual respect, and shared commitment to regional stability and growth.
Source: Singapore Senior Minister and Chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), Lee Hsien Loong
