South African president arrives in Indonesia for first state visit

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto welcomed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to Jakarta for a state visit aimed at strengthening strategic cooperation between the two countries.

Delegations from both sides held bilateral talks focused on expanding collaboration in trade, investment, renewable energy, education and cultural exchange, according to Antara News. The meeting highlighted the shared commitment of both nations to deepen ties within the framework of the Global South and to promote broader, more strategic cooperation.

"During our discussions we affirmed the importance of expanding and deepening bilateral relations on both political and economic fronts through existing bilateral mechanisms. We agreed on the need to increase trade between our two countries as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth. We spoke of the importance of building more resilient and diversified economies for the benefit of the peoples of both countries"

Cyril Ramaphosa President of South Africa

Ramaphosa noted that the two leaders discussed a range of global issues, highlighting their countries’ partnership within international organisations including BRICS, the G20, and the Non-Aligned Movement.

President Subianto expressed Indonesia’s intention to further enhance cooperation with South Africa, including the development of closer ties between their citizens through a mutual visa exemption agreement.

"We are exploring steps toward establishing a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) or a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement [...] South Africa is a key leader in the African region and will be a strategic partner for Indonesia in the years ahead "

Prabowo Subianto President of Indonesia

The Indonesian leader also underlined his commitment to implementing the cooperation agreements by dispatching technical teams and delegations to discuss specific programmes, describing his talks with President Ramaphosa as productive, particularly in the economic sector.

Earlier this month, Indonesia and South Africa agreed to boost trade and business development following a meeting between Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso and South African Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Zoko Godlembe. Both sides emphasised the importance of reviving the Joint Trade Committee and pursuing new opportunities for cooperation, particularly in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.

Photo: Antara News