Iindonesia wants to strengthen economic ties with Namibia, after recording a substantial growth in bilateral trade.
The ambassador of Indonesia in Namibia, Wisnu Pratignyo, says Namibia is a promising economy and has the potential for further collaboration.
“Namibia is a pivotal and promising economic partner for Indonesia on the African continent,” says Pratignyo.
According to Pratignyo, Namibia also provides access to neighbouring markets like Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Angola.
This was said during the Namibia-Indonesia Business Forum in Windhoek yesterday.
Despite existing challenges, trade between the two countries has seen significant growth, with the total trade volume reaching over N$192 million in 2023.
He said this underscores the evolving economic relationship, which has steadily progressed over the past five years.
“Economic cooperation between our nations remains a focal point in discussions among Indonesian business communities,” said Pratignyo.
He said the business forum initiative aligns with Indonesia’s broader economic diplomacy towards Africa, aimed at transforming long-standing political and historical relations into robust economic partnerships.
Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade executive director Sikongo Haihambo said that although the first priority in terms of collaboration is given to African countries, Namibia will not close its doors to other collaborations just because Africa is moving at a slower pace.
“We can learn from everybody and therefore collaborations are always welcome. The area for cooperation with the world is almost limitless,” said Sikongo.
He said considering Namibia imports almost everything it consumes, it is not the time to be picky.
“For a country that imports almost everything we consume, to pick and choose would be foolhardy,” said Sikongo
He added that there are direct linkages that can be created with Indonesia for corporations, considering its areas of investment priority.
Indonesia extended invitations for significant upcoming events, including the 2nd Indonesia-Africa Forum on 3 and 4 September in Bali.
The forum aims to convert the close political relations between Indonesia and Africa into tangible economic cooperation and enhance technical cooperation among developing countries.
Additionally, the 39th Trade Expo Indonesia is set for 9 to 12 October, at the Indonesia Convention Exhibition in South Tangerang.
“Our office is ready to assist in organising business matching for those interested in meeting their Indonesian counterparts,” said Pratignyo.
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