Indonesian president begins two-day state visit to UAE

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, welcomed his Indonesian counterpart Joko Widodo and his delegation at the Presidential Airport in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Widodo's arrival was marked by a ceremonial escort of UAE Air Force jets, underscoring the significance of his visit.

The visit crowns a 47-year journey of cooperation and friendship between Abu Dhabi and Jakarta, promoting progress and prosperity through shared opportunities and mutual interests.

The two leaders will hold high-level talks to strengthen their strategic partnership, with key discussions focusing on expanding cooperation in renewable energy, investment, and the financial sectors.

Economic ties

Bilateral trade between the Emirates and the largest economy in South-East Asia has surpassed $27 billion in the past 10 years.

The signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022 will further enhance this trade relationship, promoting sustainable development through increased trade and investment between the two countries.

Since its implementation in September 2023, CEPA is expected to increase the value of bilateral non-oil trade from $4.08 billion to over $10 billion within five years. This growth will be achieved by reducing tariffs on various goods and services, with more than 80 percent of UAE exports to Indonesia now exempt from customs duties.

Environmental collaboration

The UAE and Indonesia have a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, highlighted during the COP28 climate change conference in Dubai. A key initiative announced was the Mohamed bin Zayed-Joko Widodo International Mangrove Research Centre in Bali's Ngurah Rai Forest Park. Supported by a $10 million investment from the UAE, this center will advance research on mangroves, enhancing their role as natural carbon sinks, improving coastal habitats, and promoting biodiversity.

Energy sector

In 2022, the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources signed a Declaration of Intent to enhance economic and social development. This agreement aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and data in the energy sector. Finalized during the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition Conference (ADIPEC 2022), the collaboration will focus on developing electricity systems, power stations, oil and gas, and promoting clean and renewable energy sectors.

President Widodo is preparing to hand over power at the end of his second term in October, but the strengthened ties between Indonesia and the UAE will undoubtedly continue to foster mutual growth and prosperity for years to come.