Jakarta, May 17, 2025 – The Europe Today: Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono has underscored the importance of bolstering bilateral cooperation with Italy as a strategic component in Indonesia’s pursuit of food security and maritime economic development. His remarks came during a meeting with the Italian Ambassador to Indonesia, Roberto Colamine, held in Jakarta on Friday.
Minister Sugiono emphasized that Indonesia is currently prioritizing initiatives centered around the green economy, technological self-reliance, and the development of robust national industries.
“Indonesia is working to modernize its fishing fleet to ensure food security and support the sustainable growth of the maritime economy,” he stated, as quoted in an official release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He further noted that Italy’s support and collaboration could significantly contribute to Indonesia’s efforts in achieving its strategic development goals across several key sectors.
Expanding Investment and Technological Cooperation
In the meeting, Indonesia invited Italy to increase its investment in priority sectors, including renewable energy, electric vehicles, agriculture, and infrastructure. Minister Sugiono and Ambassador Colamine also explored the potential to elevate defense cooperation, particularly in the area of military equipment procurement.
Looking ahead, Minister Sugiono emphasized that bilateral defense collaboration should extend beyond procurement and encompass technology transfer, joint production, and human resource capacity building. These efforts are aimed at reinforcing Indonesia’s long-term goal of achieving self-sufficiency in its national defense industry.
The Minister affirmed that the meeting reflected a shared commitment to maximizing the mutual benefits of the Indonesia–Italy partnership, both in bilateral engagements and through joint initiatives in multilateral forums.
Growing Economic Ties
Ambassador Roberto Colamine is among eight envoys who formally presented their letters of credence to President Prabowo Subianto on May 6, 2025.
Italy currently ranks as Indonesia’s third-largest trading partner in Europe. Bilateral trade between the two nations reached US$3.95 billion in 2024. Italy’s investment in Indonesia also saw a significant rise, totaling US$70.5 million in 2024—an increase of 46 percent compared to the previous year.
Both nations are committed to deepening cooperation across economic, environmental, and security domains, as they work toward sustainable and inclusive growth rooted in mutual respect and shared strategic interests.
