Indonesia Explores Expansion of Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement with Switzerland

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia is considering expanding its comprehensive mutual legal assistance (MLA) cooperation with Switzerland, including the possibility of an extradition agreement, according to Minister of Law and Human Rights Supratman Andi Agtas.

Speaking during a meeting with Swiss Ambassador to Indonesia Olivier Zehnder on Wednesday, Agtas emphasized the need for proactive legal cooperation despite the absence of current bilateral issues. “Although there are currently no issues in our bilateral relations, we must anticipate potential developments, as anything can happen in the future,” he stated.

Indonesia and Switzerland previously signed an MLA agreement in 2019, and discussions are now underway to broaden its scope beyond legal affairs to include other areas of cooperation.

Agtas also encouraged Switzerland to engage in Indonesia’s priority economic programs, particularly in the downstream sector. He highlighted Indonesia’s recent business licensing reforms through the Online Single Submission (OSS) system, which streamlines investment procedures. “We are determined that by 2026, as many as 500 services at the Ministry of Law will all be carried out digitally. Of course, that will make it easier for Switzerland to invest,” he remarked.

The minister further emphasized the importance of strengthening trade ties under the Indonesia–European Free Trade Association Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (Indonesia-EFTA CEPA). He noted that Indonesia’s Ministry of Law played a key role in drafting regulations that provide legal certainty for foreign investments.

Agtas expressed optimism about Switzerland becoming a major investor in Indonesia’s trade and industrial sectors. “We have high-quality raw materials, and we are confident that Switzerland can serve as a gateway for Indonesian agricultural products, helping them gain broader acceptance across Europe,” he said.

In response, Ambassador Zehnder acknowledged the strong economic ties between the two nations and affirmed Switzerland’s commitment to expanding investments in Indonesia. “We also discussed the road map for economic growth in both countries, so we hope that it will be easier for Switzerland to invest in Indonesia,” he noted.

The discussions reflect the deepening cooperation between Indonesia and Switzerland, with both sides exploring new avenues for trade, legal collaboration, and investment facilitation.