Indonesia and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Bilateral Ties at 2025 World Economic Forum
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and his Saudi arabian counterpart, Prince faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud, held a pivotal meeting on the sidelines of the 2025 world Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, on January 23, 2025. The discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation between the two nations and the anticipated visit of Indonesian President Prabowo subianto to Riyadh,Saudi Arabia.
according to a statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministers also explored the potential outcomes of Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud’s planned working visit to Indonesia. This meeting marked the first bilateral engagement between the two Foreign Ministers as Sugiono assumed office in October 2024.
Beyond bilateral cooperation, the Ministers addressed the recent developments in the Palestinian situation. Sugiono expressed strong support for the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of its full implementation to prevent further loss of life.This meeting builds on previous efforts to strengthen ties between the two nations. In 2023, former Indonesian Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan highlighted the meaningful potential for enhancing trade relations between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.he urged businesses in both countries to seize opportunities for collaboration amidst global challenges.
Currently, Saudi Arabia ranks as the 24th largest destination for Indonesia’s non-oil and gas exports.While trade ties exist, there is considerable room for improvement and expansion across various sectors.
| Key Highlights of the Meeting |
|———————————–|
| Date: January 23, 2025 |
| Location: Davos, switzerland |
| focus: Strengthening bilateral cooperation |
| Key Topics: President Prabowo’s visit, trade relations, Palestinian situation |
| Outcome: Exploration of potential outcomes for Prince Faisal’s visit to Indonesia |
For more updates on Indonesia-Saudi Arabia relations, stay tuned to Tempo’s latest news.This meeting underscores the commitment of both nations to deepen their partnership, paving the way for enhanced collaboration in trade, diplomacy, and global peace efforts.
Deepening Indonesia-Saudi Arabia relations: insights from the 2025 World Economic Forum
Table of Contents
In January 2025, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud held a pivotal meeting at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. This discussion focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, trade expansion, and addressing global peace efforts. To unpack the significance of this meeting,we sat down with Dr. Aisha Malik, an expert in Middle East-Asia relations, for an in-depth analysis.
the Significance of the WEF Meeting
Editor: dr. Malik, this meeting between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia took place on January 23, 2025. How significant is this engagement in the context of bilateral relations between the two countries?
Dr. Malik: This meeting is highly significant, as it marks the first bilateral engagement between Foreign Minister Sugiono and Prince Faisal as Sugiono assumed office in October 2024. The discussions at the WEF highlighted a renewed commitment to deepening ties, especially in areas like trade, diplomacy, and regional stability.The fact that this meeting occurred on the sidelines of such a prestigious global platform underscores its importance.
President Prabowo’s Upcoming Visit to Saudi Arabia
Editor: one of the key topics was the anticipated visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to Riyadh. What can we expect from this visit?
Dr.malik: President Prabowo’s visit is expected to be a landmark moment in Indonesia-Saudi Arabia relations. It will likely focus on solidifying agreements in trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Additionally, the visit will signal Indonesia’s increasing role in Middle Eastern affairs, particularly in fostering dialog on regional conflicts. This trip could pave the way for new partnerships that benefit both nations economically and politically.
Exploring Trade Opportunities
Editor: Trade was another focal point of the discussions. saudi Arabia is currently the 24th largest destination for Indonesia’s non-oil and gas exports.What are the key areas for potential growth?
Dr. Malik: While trade ties exist,there’s substantial room for improvement. Key areas for growth include halal products,renewable energy,and technology. Both countries have complementary strengths—Indonesia’s vast natural resources and Saudi Arabia’s investment capabilities can create a robust trade ecosystem. The 2023 remarks by former Indonesian Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan about enhancing trade relations highlight this potential. Now, with this meeting, we’re seeing concrete steps toward realizing that vision.
Addressing the Palestinian Situation
Editor: The Ministers also discussed the Palestinian situation,with Foreign Minister Sugiono supporting the Gaza ceasefire agreement. How does this align with both nations’ diplomatic priorities?
Dr. Malik: Both Indonesia and Saudi arabia have been vocal advocates for the Palestinian cause. Indonesia, as the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, and Saudi Arabia, as a key player in the middle East, share a commitment to regional stability. Sugiono’s emphasis on the ceasefire agreement reflects Indonesia’s broader diplomatic stance on humanitarian issues. This alignment strengthens their bilateral relationship and positions them as leaders in global peace efforts.
The Road Ahead: Strengthening Indonesia-Saudi arabia Ties
Editor: Looking ahead, what are the key takeaways from this meeting, and how might it shape future relations?
Dr. Malik: This meeting lays a strong foundation for future collaboration. The exploration of Prince Faisal’s working visit to Indonesia suggests a continuous, high-level dialogue between the two nations.The focus on trade, regional stability, and cultural exchange indicates a thorough approach to bilateral relations. I’m optimistic that we’ll see tangible outcomes in the coming years, benefiting both countries and contributing to global peace and prosperity.
Conclusion
This interview with Dr.Aisha Malik provides valuable insights into the Indonesia-Saudi Arabia meeting at the 2025 World Economic Forum. From trade expansion to diplomatic collaboration, the discussions signal a promising future for bilateral relations. As both nations continue to navigate global challenges, their strengthened partnership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping regional and global dynamics.
