Indonesia and Kuwait Strengthen Ties, Eyeing Increased Trade and Cooperation
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indonesian Ambassador to Kuwait Lena Maryana affirmed growing bilateral relations during a reception commemorating Indonesia's Independence Day.
- The reception highlighted upcoming events like the second Joint Ministerial Committee session and the first Indonesian-Kuwaiti Energy Forum.
- Both nations aim to increase trade volume by at least 10 percent annually and are exploring new cooperation opportunities.
Indonesian Ambassador to Kuwait Lena Maryana affirmed that Indonesian-Kuwaiti relations continue to flourish across various sectors, marking 58 years since diplomatic ties were established on February 28, 1968. She made these remarks at a reception organized by the Indonesian Embassy to celebrate the country's 81st Independence Day.
The event began with a moment of silence to honor victims of the recent earthquake in Indonesia, with Ambassador Maryana extending condolences to those affected. The reception was attended by Kuwait's Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, along with several ambassadors, heads of diplomatic missions, and other dignitaries.
the Indonesian-Kuwaiti relations continue to grow in various fields
Ambassador Maryana highlighted upcoming collaborative initiatives, including the second session of the Joint Ministerial Committee scheduled for late November and the finalization of arrangements for the inaugural Indonesian-Kuwaiti Energy Forum in Indonesia. She expressed gratitude for Minister Al-Mukhaizeem's presence, viewing it as a testament to the strong relationship and a motivation to deepen cooperation.
his presence reflects the strength of relations between Indonesia and Kuwait, and serves as a motivation to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries
Indonesia's Independence Day theme this year is "A Sovereign, Just and Prosperous Indonesia." Maryana noted that both countries are actively exploring new avenues for cooperation to safeguard mutual interests. Bilateral relations have seen reciprocal high-level visits and the signing of several agreements, including the establishment of a joint committee. Both sides have committed to accelerating the implementation of signed Memoranda of Understanding.
Indonesia aims for a continuous annual rise in trade volume with Kuwait, targeting at least 10 percent growth while striving for a more balanced trade relationship. The Ambassador expressed optimism regarding the completion of free trade agreement negotiations between Indonesia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries within the current year. Kuwaiti investments in Indonesia's non-oil and gas sectors reached approximately $1.2 million in 2025, an increase from $1 million in 2024, with Kuwaiti foreign direct investment (FDI) in Indonesia rising by 20.26 percent compared to the previous year.
A Sovereign, Just and Prosperous Indonesia
Originally published by Arab Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.