October 23, 2025 | 12:49 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Prabowo Subianto met with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss a range of issues, expressing Indonesia's desire for closer collaboration, including boosting people-to-people relations through a joint visa-free arrangement.
During a joint press statement at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, Prabowo expressed hope that they could expedite the implementation of the collaboration agreement. This will involve sending technical teams and delegations to discuss specific programs with South Africa.
"We also hope to establish closer collaboration in people-to-people relations, for example, a joint visa-free arrangement," Prabowo stated, as quoted by Antara.
Prabowo highlighted that the bilateral discussions with President Ramaphosa were productive, particularly in the economic field. While both countries have seen significant trade growth over the last five years, he noted that there is still ample room to expand and balance the trade value.
In addition to the economic sector, Prabowo emphasized the importance of expediting the defense collaboration agreement that was initially agreed upon in 2023. Cooperation in the fields of agriculture, energy, science, and education was also a key focus area for the two leaders.
Prabowo also expressed Indonesia's strong support for South Africa's presidency of the G20 in 2025, confirming his attendance at the G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg on November 22-23, 2025.
"We believe that South Africa's leadership will advance toward a more inclusive and fair global economic order," Prabowo said.
Concluding his statement, Prabowo reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with South Africa, expressing gratitude for the growing friendship and cooperation.
Ramaphosa Highlights Historical Ties
South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa stated that the relationship between Indonesia and South Africa has deep historical roots dating back almost 350 years, forming the basis for their long-term partnership.
"The relationship between South Africa and Indonesia has deep historical roots. A history that spans almost 350 years, starting in the 17th century when Indonesians were first brought to South Africa by the Dutch colonizers at that time," President Ramaphosa noted.
He described his visit to Indonesia as a significant milestone in strengthening the relationship amid the spirit of Global South solidarity.
He congratulated Indonesia on the 70th anniversary of the Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung in 1955, a historic moment for South Africa that was represented by two great leaders of the country: Moses Kotane and Moulvi Cachalia. Ramaphosa views the conference as a symbol of the struggle for independence and global equality.
Trade, BRICS, and Challenges
Ramaphosa also commented on Indonesia's potential entry into BRICS, stating that it would open up opportunities for strategic collaboration in various fields.
"We agree on the need to increase trade between the two countries as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth. We discussed the importance of building a more robust and diverse economy between our two countries for the benefit of our respective peoples, as we face similar geopolitical challenges," Ramaphosa concluded.
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