Indonesia expands strategic partnerships with New Zealand and South Korea

Indonesia is strengthening bilateral ties with New Zealand and South Korea across several strategic sectors, including energy, food security, and defense.

During the 13th Joint Ministerial Commission meeting, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters discussed enhancing food security through improved agricultural productivity and cattle farming. The two nations also committed to expanding renewable energy cooperation, specifically focusing on geothermal and solar power, while facilitating halal trade and increasing educational scholarship opportunities.

Separately, South Korea has expressed interest in becoming a primary partner for Indonesia's potential nuclear energy development, offering its technical expertise should Indonesia decide to pursue nuclear power. In the defense sector, South Korean officials stated that the challenges faced during the KF-21/IF-X fighter jet co-development project have not hindered bilateral relations; instead, the experience is viewed as a foundation for a stronger, long-term defense partnership.