RI calls for stronger cross-regional connectivity at Uzbekistan forum

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti called for strengthening cross-regional economic connectivity at an international business forum in Uzbekistan.

According to her, as stated in a statement received here on Friday, it is important to strengthen economic collaboration amid evolving global dynamics and uncertainty.

Quoting President Prabowo Subianto, Esti said that Indonesia adheres to the principle that "a thousand friends are still too few, while one enemy is already too many."

The principle serves as the foundation for continuously building partnerships and expanding cooperation with countries around the world.

"Therefore, Indonesia continues to promote active engagement with various countries and regions through mutually beneficial trade, investment, and economic partnerships," she said in a forum in Tashkent.

The forum, titled "From Uzbekistan to the Gulf and Beyond: Trade Opportunities Business Forum," served as a strategic platform bringing together ministers and deputy ministers overseeing trade and economic affairs, leaders of chambers of commerce, and business actors.

Esti noted that Uzbekistan holds a strategic position as Indonesia's gateway to the rapidly developing Central Asian region.

"Indonesia and Uzbekistan can serve as a bridge connecting economic opportunities in Southeast Asia and Central Asia. By strengthening partnerships and connectivity, we can create more trade, investment, and prosperity for the people of both countries," the deputy minister said.

In 2025, trade between Indonesia and Uzbekistan reached approximately US$181 million.

Indonesia's main exports included margarine, vegetable fats, soap, and various other manufactured products.

Meanwhile, Indonesia's imports were dominated by potassium fertilizers, fiber pulp, and aluminum.

The positive trade momentum has been strengthened by the launch of negotiations on the Indonesia-Uzbekistan Free Trade Agreement (IU-FTA) in March 2026.

The negotiations are expected to open broader market access, increase trade and investment flows, and create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.

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Translator: Kelik, Kenzu

Editor: Primayanti

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