Brussels, 20/10/2004 (Agence Europe) - In a statement on behalf of the EU, the Dutch Presidency has welcomed Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono as the first President of the Republic of Indonesia elected by direct universal suffrage. "With its wide support, the people of Indonesia have given Mr Yudhoyono a strong mandate", which will allow him to "meet the political, social and economic challenges Indonesia is faced with", stresses the statement. The EU declares itself prepared to "deepen its relations and cooperation with the Republic of Indonesia, which it considers a very important partner". On 27 and 28 October, it will send a ministerial Troika to Jakarta, led by the Dutch Foreign Minister, Bernard Bot.