JAKARTA, May 17 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Friday that he hopes construction of MotoGP street circuit in West Nusa Tenggara province would be fully complete next year, with the country set to host a round of motorcycle racing's premier championship in 2021.
President Jokowi made the comments during a visit to the planned location for the race in the Mandalika resort area, a statement issued by the presidential office said.
"We hope to be able to see a MotoGP race in Mandalika of West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia," said Jokowi.
It was announced earlier this year that Indonesia had been awarded the rights to host a MotoGP event on a three-year deal commencing in 2021, defeating a rival bid from Brazil.
President Jokowi said he hoped that completion of the circuit next year would convince MotoGP officials of Indonesia's capability and commitment to host the event.
In addition to the circuit, other facilities being built in the vicinity include new roads, an airport and a hospital.
The proposed street circuit in Mandalika will measure 4.32km in length and feature 18 turns.
