RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening long-term cooperation with Kuwait, particularly in the energy sector, as officials from both countries explored new avenues for collaboration during Kuwait’s National and Liberation Day celebrations in Jakarta on Thursday evening, February 5, 2026.

Indonesian Minister of Manpower Yassierli said Jakarta is optimistic about expanding bilateral ties with Kuwait through concrete initiatives, including the planned first Indonesia-Kuwait Energy Forum, which is expected to be held either toward the end of the first half or the beginning of the second half of this year.

Speaking at the event, Minister Yassierli noted that Indonesia has taken into account Kuwait’s proposal to focus the forum on renewable energy and energy transition, areas that have become shared priorities for both countries.

He also expressed expectations for deeper cooperation among Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company (KUFPEC), Indonesia’s state energy firm PT Pertamina, and Sinopec in onshore and offshore exploration projects in Sulawesi.

According to the Minister, KUFPEC has already been actively involved in offshore exploration projects in several Indonesian regions, including Natuna, Seram, Buton, and Anambas.

Beyond energy, he highlighted encouraging trends in bilateral trade. Trade between Indonesia and Kuwait reached USD 537 million from January to November 2025, marking a 9 percent increase compared with USD 494 million during the same period in 2024.

In the labor sector, he said around 2,850 Indonesian nationals are currently working in Kuwait as professionals and skilled workers in sectors such as oil and gas, healthcare, and hospitality. That figure represents approximately 46 percent of the estimated 6,100 Indonesians residing in Kuwait.

Looking ahead, the Minister said the partnership between the two countries is expected to be further strengthened through the signing of key agreements, including a Bilateral Investment Treaty, an Air Services Agreement, and a Free Trade Agreement between Indonesia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

“I strongly hope the Indonesia-GCC Free Trade Agreement can be finalized this year. Its completion will further enhance cooperation between Indonesia and GCC member states, including Kuwait,” he said.

Kuwait commemorates its 65th National Day on February 25 and its 35th Liberation Day on February 26. Indonesia and Kuwait have maintained diplomatic relations for 58 years, since formally establishing ties on February 28, 1968. ***