Jakarta. Indonesian President Joko Widodo continued his European tour with an official visit to the Royal Palace of Brussels to meet with Belgium's King Philippe, Thursday (21/04).

Joko expressed condolences to the king over the March 22 bomb attacks in Brussels, reiterating that efforts to fight international terrorism should be strengthened.

“Indonesia condemns the Brussels attacks,” said Joko as quoted in a statement.

The president and the king then discussed bilateral issues between Indonesia and Belgium. Princess Astrid, sister of the Belgian monarch, had visited Indonesia earlier in March 2015, showing Belgium’s intention to strengthen relations with Indonesia.

Joko said Indonesia shared the same intention for strong partnerships in various sectors, particularly economy, culture and interfaith dialog.

The president also expressed his concern that there have been campaigns in several European Union countries against Indonesian palm oil. “I believe Belgium will not discriminate against our palm oil,” Joko said.

King Philippe meanwhile praised Indonesia for its development, especially its economic growth and the government’s deregulation policies.

Philippe said Indonesia’s growing democracy and religious tolerance, including its interfaith communication, are something every country can learn from.

The King invited Joko for a state visit to Belgium next year, as well as reiterating an invitation for Indonesia to become a guest of the state at the Europalia Indonesia Festival 2017.