RI, Kazakhstan eye new trade corridor to boost economic ties

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia and Kazakhstan have agreed to pursue the development of a bilateral trade corridor to strengthen economic relations following the ratification of the Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (Indonesia-EAEU FTA).

The initiative was discussed during a bilateral meeting between Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister Anis Matta and Kazakh Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev during Matta's official visit to the country, which began on Saturday (June 26).

"Both parties agree that trade connectivity is a critical factor in accelerating the flow of commodities, investments, and broader economic interactions," the Indonesian Foreign Ministry said in a statement released on Wednesday.

During the talks, Matta emphasized that economic cooperation should expand beyond simply growing overall trade volume.

Instead, he noted, both nations should focus on developing complementary, value-added sectors that deliver balanced, mutual benefits.

He added that the recently ratified Indonesia-EAEU FTA is expected to significantly boost trade with Kazakhstan and other EAEU member states.

Beyond economic ties, the two officials deliberated strategies to bolster people-to-people relations.

Key proposals included easing visitor visa requirements, establishing direct flights between Indonesia and Kazakhstan, and fostering collaboration within the creative economy.

The two sides also exchanged views on regional security, highlighting the critical importance of resolving existing conflicts through diplomatic dialogue.

On the sidelines of his diplomatic visit, Deputy Minister Matta met with Kazakh Grand Mufti Nauryzbai Kazhy Taganuly to discuss potential cooperation on halal certification.

Matta also held separate talks with Kairat Sarybay, Secretary-General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), and Berik Aryn, Secretary-General of the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS).

The discussions at the Astana-based organizations focused on global peace, regional security, and joint efforts to strengthen international food security.

Translator: Kuntum Khaira Riswan, Nabil Ihsan

Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono

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