REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, SOCHI -- President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), at a bilateral meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, urged Russia to increase its palm oil imports from Indonesia.

"With regard to trade, we need to look for new ways to boost the exports of palm oil from Indonesia to Russia in the near future," President Jokowi stated while holding talks with Putin at the Russian president's Bocharoc Rucey residence, here, Wednesday evening.

"Mr President, you are aware of the plans to increase the import tax on palm oil, which is the largest export commodity from Indonesia to Russia, with value reaching US$480 million. Exports have fallen sharply, which is not favorable for our country's economy," he pointed out.

"I hope that your policies, Mr President, will help ensure that Indonesian palm oil exports to Russia will increase in the near future," he noted.

Jokowi praised the sound bilateral relations between Indonesia and Russia, which had been established six decades ago.

"Our bilateral relations, with a long-standing history, since the days of President Soekarno, should be intensified now. I also hope that economic, political, and cultural ties will be expanded further," the Indonesian head of state remarked.

Jokowi also informed President Putin that Indonesia had planned to procure a property in Moscow to function as the nation's embassy since the Indonesian embassy building was currently being renovated.

President Putin stated that Sochi held special significance for the two countries as 60 years ago, Indonesia's first President, Soekarno, who was a close friend of Russia, visited this city.

"I have fond memories of my visit to your country and the positive atmosphere created for our delegation on that visit. I hope that we will be able to reciprocate with our Russian hospitality during

your visit," Putin affirmed.

The two leaders witnessed the signing of five memoranda of understanding (MoUs) on bilateral cooperation, covering issues in defense, archiving, illegal fishing eradication, and cultural exchange.

President Jokowi stayed at Putin's residence from 6:10 p.m. to around 9 p.m. local time for the bilateral meeting and the signing of the MoUs.

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