Jakarta, April 24, 2026 – The Europe Today: Indonesia and the Philippines have agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including economic, political, and security domains, while reaffirming their shared commitment to regional and global stability.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Philippine Foreign Minister Theresa Lazaro, followed by a joint press statement in Jakarta on Thursday.
Speaking on economic cooperation, Sugiono said both countries agreed to enhance collaboration through initiatives such as local currency settlement and the development of a more robust QR payment system. The two sides also pledged to strengthen connectivity between border cities, including Manado, Bitung, Davao, and General Santos, to facilitate trade and people-to-people exchanges.
Indonesia welcomed progress in strategic partnerships on critical minerals, particularly through initiatives such as the Nickel Alliance, aimed at building resilient global supply chains.
In the political and security spheres, the two countries agreed to expand maritime cooperation, improve border management, and accelerate discussions on the delimitation of the continental shelf in accordance with international law. Both sides also committed to strengthening defense industry ties, including the procurement of Indonesian-made defense equipment.
On consular matters, progress was acknowledged in addressing issues involving individuals of Indonesian and Filipino descent, reflecting a shared commitment to protecting citizens’ rights and welfare.
The ministers also exchanged views on key regional and international developments. They reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea through full adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982 UNCLOS).
Both sides emphasized the need for an inclusive political process in Myanmar to ensure long-term peace, regional stability, and effective humanitarian assistance.
Addressing the situation in the Middle East, the ministers described the current ceasefire as a critical step toward preventing further escalation. Sugiono underscored that stability in the Gulf region is vital for safeguarding global energy security, supply chains, and economic resilience, particularly for ASEAN and the wider Asian region.
He further stressed that lasting peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without justice for Palestine, reiterating that a two-state solution remains the only viable path forward.
The meeting reflects the growing momentum in Indonesia-Philippines relations and their shared vision for strengthened cooperation and regional peace.
