DENPASAR ~

Deputy Governor of Bali Ketut Sudikerta expected that Germany will support the development of tourism on the island, especially in the field of infrastructure development.

“We expect  German government to support the advancement of tourism sector through the development of infrastructure in a sustainable manner. Moreover, access to tourism destinations in Bali at this time are not evenly distributed,” said Sudikerta when receiving in audience the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Indonesia Georg Witschel, in Denpasar on Tuesday.

According to him, to achieve adequate tourism infrastructure, a substantial capital is needed and of course it can not be only from the local government, but also with the help of the private sector and investors.

Through the visit of German Ambassador, Sudikerta hoped to provide opportunities for cooperation between Bali and Germany, especially in infrastructure and tourism to realize development programs in Bali.

Sudikerta explained one of the priority programs of Bali Government currently in the field of infrastructure is the construction of the toll roads that will connect the south-western –north Bali which is intended to enable the inter-regional economic equality.

In addition, the government also plans to build an international airport in north Bali, an international sports stadium in South Kuta, Benoa Port development, the construction of the Port of Amed in Karangasem Regency, the construction of international hospitals and other developments.

Meanwhile, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Indonesia Georg Witschel expressed his appreciation for the positive response from the provincial government of Bali.

According to him, the master plan launched by the government is considered to be very good, to promote and improve the economy of Bali especially aims in terms of economic equality.

However, he advised that the development of tourism accommodation facilities in Bali should be adapted to the spatial capacity and tourist’s comfort.

“Prestigious tourism development prioritizes quality in terms of both infrastructure and supporting facilities. We hope the government can considers all aspects of development to produce qualified tourism,” he said.

As for investment opportunities in Bali in terms of infrastructure, he promised to promote it to the German investors in order to assist Bali in realizing the plans.

“Our hope, of this meeting, Germany and Indonesia government to establish closer cooperation in the field of development in Indonesia, especially in Bali,” said Witschel accompanied by Chairman of the Investment and Marketing of Germany Roland Rhode.