Indonesia, Madagascar Seek Stronger Economic Partnership, Expand Cooperation in Mining and Energy
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia and Madagascar have agreed to deepen economic cooperation and enhance connectivity, with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono describing Madagascar as a strategic gateway to Africa and a key partner in accessing the continent’s vast mineral resources.
Speaking after a bilateral meeting with Madagascan Foreign Minister Alice N’Diaye in Jakarta on Wednesday, Sugiono highlighted Madagascar’s strategic geographic location and its abundant mineral reserves, which are increasingly important for industrial development and advanced technologies.
He noted that bilateral trade between the two countries has shown a consistently positive trend and stressed the importance of strengthening private-sector engagement and exploring untapped investment opportunities.
According to Sugiono, both nations pledged to support each other’s economic and industrial development by expanding cooperation in sectors including mineral resources, energy, finance, and the creative economy.
To facilitate diplomatic and commercial exchanges, the two ministers finalized a visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports. Sugiono said discussions are also continuing on extending visa exemptions or introducing additional travel facilitation measures for business communities to promote corporate partnerships and investment.
In a joint press statement, Foreign Minister Alice N’Diaye identified mining and natural resources as sectors offering immediate opportunities for Indonesian investment and cooperation.
She also pointed to renewable energy, special economic zones, light industry, agriculture, fisheries, the blue economy, and tourism as areas with significant potential for joint development.
N’Diaye expressed Madagascar’s interest in expanding investment, technology transfer, and value-added production with Indonesia, describing Indonesia as an increasingly important partner whose economy complements that of Madagascar.
The discussions underscored the commitment of both countries to broadening economic ties and fostering mutually beneficial cooperation across a range of strategic sectors.
