President Urges District Governments to Develop Regional Identity

Jakarta (Antara Bali) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has called on all district governments to develop regional identity and character in a bid to attract investors.

"It is very important for the district governments to develop their respective regional identity and character to attract investors to invest," President Jokowi stated while opening the Indonesian Association of District Governments International Trade and Investment Summit 2015 here on Wednesday.

The president noted that several regions are not developing their regional potential but instead are trying to promote commodities that are not native to their regions.

President Jokowi pointed out that one region, for instance, is promoting the chocolate commodity instead of offering investment in other commodities.

"Therefore, good communication between the regional and central governments is very important," the president affirmed, adding that the regional governments should not get stuck in a bureaucratic routine, but instead, work towards formulating strategic policies for their regions.

The Indonesian Association of District Governments International Trade and Investment Summit is themed, "Seizing the Opportunity of Government Investment Cooperation 2015-2019."

He remarked that the event will be held on May 13-15, in which investment opportunities in the regions in sectors such as infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, fisheries, energy, and mining will be discussed.

"Trade and investment are key to regional development, and therefore, the regional leaders should not get stuck in a bureaucratic routine and forget the development policies and strategies in the region," the president noted.

On the occasion, President Jokowi was accompanied by several cabinet ministers such as Home Affairs Minister Tjahjo Kumolo, Cabinet Secretary Andi Widjajanto, Law and Human Rights Minister Yasonna Laoly, and Trade Minister Rachmat Gobel, among others.(WDY)