(VNF) - Indonesian President Joko Widodo on October 24^th held a meeting to discuss preparations on infrastructure for the 18^th Asian Games slated for 2018 in Jakarta and Palembang, South Sumatra province, according to Antara news agency.

"I urged that all preparations must proceed on time because it is a question of our pride and will underline Indonesia's capability in hosting the games," Antara quoted the President as saying.

Indonesia will host the 2018 Asian Games. (Photo: jakarta.coconut.co)

The meeting was held in the Presidential Office in Jakarta and attended by Vice President Jusuf Kalla, Coordinating Minister for Development of Human and Culture Puan Maharani, Minister of Youth and Sports Imam Nahrawi, Minister of State Secretary Pratikno as well as Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung.

The president asked the ministers to focus on three main topics, namely infrastructure readiness, the competitiveness of Indonesian athletes and transportation facilities between Jakarta and Palembang, the two cities that will be hosting the 18^th Asian Games.

"I ask ministers to describe the progress in the preparations being made for Asian Games," he said.

As for the transportation facilities, the President directed the ministers to ensure such facilities in provinces surrounding Jakarta, such as West Java and Banten. The sports event will be centered on these two areas.

He also asked ministers to submit reports in a scheduled manner about these preparations to the president.

"Please let me know if there are any obstacles in preparing for the Asian Games," he added.

The 18th Asian Games, which will have at least 40 sports events, will take place from August 18^th to September 2^nd, 2018, according to Antara.

Jakarta will host most events at the 2018 games, with a handful of others set to take place in the city of Palembang on Sumatra Island.

Indonesia last staged the Asian Games in 1962, in Jakarta./.

( Compiled by VNF )