Indonesia-South Africa Strengthen Strategic Ties Across Key Sectors

KBRN, Jakarta: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has expressed the country's intent to deepen its partnership with South Africa, highlighting the importance of closer people-to-people ties, including the possibility of a mutual visa-free arrangement.

Speaking during a joint press conference with South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, President Prabowo emphasized the need to accelerate the implementation of bilateral agreements.

He proposed dispatching technical teams and delegations to discuss concrete programs that would advance cooperation between the two nations. “We also hope to strengthen cooperation in people-to-people arrangements, such as establishing a mutual visa-free policy,” Prabowo stated, as quoted by antaranews.com.

The two leaders held productive bilateral talks, with a strong focus on economic collaboration. President Prabowo noted that trade between Indonesia and South Africa has seen significant growth over the past five years, yet there remains ample opportunity to expand and balance the trade relationship.

Beyond economic matters, President Prabowo underscored the urgency of implementing the defense cooperation agreement signed in 2023. He also highlighted agriculture, energy, science, and education as key areas for future collaboration.

President Prabowo voiced Indonesia’s full support for South Africa’s leadership as the G20 Presidency in 2025 and confirmed his attendance at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, scheduled for November 22–23, 2025.

“We believe South Africa’s leadership will help shape a more inclusive and equitable global economic order,” President Prabowo affirmed.

Concluding the press conference, President Prabowo expressed sincere gratitude for President Ramaphosa’s visit and the growing friendship between the two countries. He reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to advancing its strategic partnership with South Africa.

“Once again, I extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation for your visit, for the friendship, solidarity, and cooperation that continue to flourish between Indonesia and South Africa. We are committed to strengthening our strategic partnership moving forward,” the President said. ***