Indonesia And Thailand Strengthen Bilateral Relations Looking For New Opportunities

Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto (photo: between)

JAKARTA - Indonesia and Thailand are strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries by exploring opportunities for new cooperation.

Our strong bilateral relationship, which has a rooted in mutual respect and shared values, has fostered collaboration in various fields, including trade, investment, security, education, culture, and exchange between communities, "explained Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto in his statement, Thursday, December 5.

Bilateral trade between Indonesia and Thailand has increased and hit a record high of more than 19 billion US dollars in 2022 and nearly 17.5 US dollars billion in 2023.

In addition, the FDI Thailand in Indonesia also grew significantly last year with more than USD 185.5 million projects.

According to Airlangga, it is necessary to continue to encourage stronger engagement, not only between the Government, but also business to business and contact between communities.

"We also believe that there is great potential that has not been utilized to further strengthen the partnership. President Prabowo Subianto's priority regarding food and energy security, as well as foreign policies that are free and active, is in line with our common goals," said Airlangga.

Given the long history and close relations between the two countries, Indonesia and Thailand can become strong partners in realizing common goals. Moreover, in 2025, Indonesia and Thailand will celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations.

Airlangga said that as fellow members of the founders of ASEAN, Indonesia and Thailand were interrelated on a joint journey towards regional progress and prosperity.

"Under regional economic cooperation, I would like to thank Thailand for its leadership in negotiating the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), which is currently running according to plan. I am sure DEFA will be able to provide economic benefits for the entire ASEAN country," said Coordinating Minister Airlangga.

In addition, Airlangga said that Indonesia and Thailand are also heading for membership in BRICS and OECD. This prompted the two countries to work together more closely.

According to Airlangga, this is to ensure that the membership is not only beneficial for both countries, but also for increasing the voices of developing countries, as well as encouraging southern-south cooperation, and ensuring a positive impact on the landscape of global development.

I once again want to congratulate Thailand on this opportunity and wish success to Thailand's new government. May our bilateral and regional relations continue to grow," Airlangga concluded.