Indonesia and South Africa agree on mutual visa-free travel

Indonesia and the Republic of South Africa agreed on the mutual abolition of visas. The new entry procedure was announced by Vice President of Indonesia Gibran Rakabuming Raka at a business forum in Johannesburg, ANTARA reported.

The agreement was the outcome of the October talks between President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto and his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa in Jakarta. As the vice president noted, this step reflects the growing partnership between the states.

“President Ramaphosa’s visit to Indonesia several weeks ago demonstrates the profound cooperation between our countries,” emphasised Rakabuming Raka.

The Vice President also stated Indonesia’s readiness to increase investment in South African sectors of the economy, particularly in agriculture and energy. South Africa is viewed by Jakarta as a strategic partner and a “gateway” to the markets of the entire African continent. Indonesia is ready to offer its industrial capacity, developed manufacturing base, skilled personnel and technologies, as well as open access to the vast market of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"Africa is growing really fast and is full of potential. Africa is the future, and Indonesia wants to build that future together with Africa," concluded Rakabuming Raka.

The parties also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in strategic industrial areas.

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