Indonesia and Timor-Leste Forge Stronger Bilateral Cooperation

TheIndonesia.id - Indonesia's Foreign Minister, Sugiono, welcomed his Timor-Leste counterpart, Bendito dos Santos Freitas, in a visit aimed at boosting bilateral cooperation and ensuring tangible benefits for both nations.

According to Antara News Agency, in a statement issued on Monday, Sugiono emphasized the growing partnership between the two countries, noting that, "The cooperation between Indonesia and Timor-Leste continues to develop in a spirit of brotherhood, and we are committed to making sure it delivers real benefits to the people of both nations."

The two ministers discussed a broad range of topics, focusing on enhancing economic ties, resolving border disputes, and advancing Timor-Leste's full integration into the ASEAN community.

FM Sugiono praised the economic collaboration between Indonesia and Timor-Leste, with Indonesia being the largest trading partner for Timor-Leste. In 2024, the bilateral trade reached USD 391.3 million, reflecting a 12.31 percent increase from the previous year.

"I commend the progress made in the Bilateral Investment Treaty negotiations. Accelerating the approval of Indonesian investments, including those involving state-owned enterprises in Timor-Leste, is essential for fostering closer economic cooperation," stated the Foreigh Minister of Indonesia, Sugiono.

He reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to supporting Timor-Leste's development, stating that Indonesia's role as a development partner would continue to evolve through collaboration in various sectors. Additionally, Indonesia is playing an active role in supporting Timor-Leste’s bid for full ASEAN membership, which includes capacity-building initiatives.

"Timor-Leste is a part of the ASEAN family, and Indonesia is prepared to support its full integration into the region," Sugiono noted.

Development cooperation between the two countries has expanded over recent years, covering areas such as diplomatic training, financial management reform, scholarships, and aquaculture development.

On the issue of the border dispute, both ministers agreed to resolve the matter constructively, guided by the principles of good neighborliness and mutual respect.

"A comprehensive border resolution will create new economic opportunities and enhance connectivity for the communities living in border areas," Sugiono stated.

Concluding the meeting, the ministers emphasized their commitment to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Timor-Leste. The two also agreed to revitalize the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) as a strategic platform at the foreign ministerial level to review and promote the development of bilateral cooperation.