Indonesia and Ethiopia are exploring ways to enhance bilateral cooperation, as well as closer economic ties within the BRICS group, according to a report by Antara News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.
The report stated that Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono met with Ethiopian Ambassador to Indonesia, Fekadu Beyene Aleka, during which both parties discussed approaches to strengthening their partnership.
The Indonesian Foreign Minister outlined national priorities, including poverty reduction through more effective use of resources.
He highlighted the significant potential for expanding trade and economic relations with Ethiopia and expressed willingness to increase exports of competitive products, primarily in the agricultural and pharmaceutical sectors.
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Sugiono noted that bilateral trade between the two countries reached 98 million US dollars in 2024, marking a 55 per cent increase year-on-year.
He added that Indonesian companies are already operating in Ethiopia in sectors such as household chemicals, food, and textiles.
Discussions also centred on the prospects of signing a bilateral investment treaty, as well as issues relating to food and energy security.
Priority was given to the development of coconut, sugar cane, and seaweed production.
The Ambassador expressed interest in adopting Indonesian technologies for sugar cane cultivation.
Both parties agreed to intensify cooperation in education, science, and training, and to resume the activities of the joint commission on bilateral cooperation.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Indonesian Minister invited Ethiopia to engage more actively in joint initiatives within BRICS.
