Indonesia keen to boost economic ties with Bangladesh beyond traditional trade

Indonesia is interested in expanding economic cooperation with Bangladesh beyond traditional business engagements, Indonesian Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Anis Matta said on Thursday.

He made the remarks when he met State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at her office in Dhaka. They discussed issues of mutual interest.

Referring to the existing strong relations between the two countries, Shama Obaed stressed the need to deepen bilateral trade and urged Indonesia to import more Bangladeshi products.

She also called for greater cooperation between women entrepreneurs of the two countries.

Welcoming the proposals, Anis Matta expressed Indonesia’s interest in working closely with Bangladesh to expand economic cooperation.

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To strengthen connectivity, Anis Matta encouraged exploring the possibility of establishing a direct air link between Dhaka and Jakarta.

He also expressed Indonesia’s interest in exploring Dhaka as a potential transit hub for Indonesian passengers travelling to Saudi Arabia.

Shama Obaed called for greater cooperation in the areas of environment and climate change, artificial intelligence and cultural exchange.

She also encouraged Indonesian students to explore educational opportunities in Bangladesh, particularly at the country’s medical universities, to deepen cooperation in education and training.

Anis Matta is on an official visit to Bangladesh and is scheduled to leave Dhaka on Thursday.