Indonesia, Germany boost bilateral ties
Indonesian President Joko Widodo and German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed enhancing economic and trade cooperation, and links in fighting terrorism, during their talks in Berlin on April 18.
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Merkel praised the efforts of the Indonesian leader in promoting reforms in the country.
She stated that she backs a free trade agreement (FTA) between the European Union (EU) and Indonesia, stressing that this is necessary for stronger trade connections between the two sides.
She affirmed that Germany will make efforts to promote official negotiations.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo said he supports a closer connection between the two nations in the fight against terrorism.
He noted that his visit to Germany also aimed to bolster links in education, especially vocational training.
During his stay in Germany, the Indonesian leader attended and delivered a speech at the Indonesian- German Business Forum.
Germany is one of Indonesia’s most important trade partners in Europe and the seventh largest investor, according to Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.
Germany is the first destination in Joko Widodo’s week-long tour of Europe.
Two-way trade between Indonesia and the EU hit over US$26 billion in 2015, making the union the fourth largest trade partner of Indonesia.
