Indonesia and Rwanda have solidified their diplomatic ties by signing an agreement on visa exemption for holders of diplomatic and service passports. The accord, sealed during a bilateral meeting in Jakarta, aims to streamline entry and stay regulations for officials from both nations, fostering stronger relations between them.
Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi highlighted the significance of the agreement, emphasizing its role in simplifying procedures and facilitating closer interactions between Indonesian and Rwandan officials. Notably, Indonesia has been granting Rwanda visa on arrival (VoA) status since February last year, underscoring efforts to enhance people-to-people exchanges.
During the meeting, Minister Retno and Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Vincent Biruta, engaged in discussions covering political, security, and economic dimensions of their bilateral relations. The signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on political consultations provides a framework for comprehensive cooperation and dialogue on various regional and global issues.
Both countries have also intensified efforts to bolster security cooperation, with plans to finalize an MoU between their respective national police forces aimed at combating transnational organized crime and enhancing capacity building.
On the economic front, Minister Retno highlighted the positive trajectory of bilateral trade, noting a significant increase in trade volume despite challenges posed by the pandemic. To further enhance economic cooperation, the ministers signed an MoU covering trade, agriculture, industry, energy, and mining sectors, signaling their commitment to deepen economic ties.
Moreover, discussions revolved around the exploration of a preferential trade agreement (PTA) between Indonesia and Rwanda, as well as the potential for a PTA between Indonesia and the East African Community (EAC). These initiatives aim to create favorable conditions for trade and investment between the two nations and the wider East African region.
The agreements and discussions underscore the commitment of Indonesia and Rwanda to expand and diversify their cooperation across various sectors, paving the way for mutually beneficial partnerships in the future.
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