Consulate Office in Makassar Strengthens Netherlands-Indonesia Relations

The Kingdom of the Netherlands has officially opened an Honorary Consulate for Sulawesi in Makassar, South Sulawesi Province, marking a new chapter in strengthening bilateral relations between the Netherlands and Indonesia in the eastern region of the country.

Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of the Netherlands for Sulawesi, Osco Olfriady Letunggamu, stated that the Consulate will serve as an active bridge connecting Sulawesi’s potential with networks, knowledge, technology, as well as broader trade, investment and cooperation opportunities with the Netherlands.

“In the economic field, focus will be given to the agricultural sector, as well as energy, maritime affairs and water,” he said through an official statement in Makassar on Thursday.

Meanwhile, people-to-people relations between Sulawesi and the Netherlands will also be strengthened through higher education cooperation and various cultural activities.

Adriaan Palm outlined three main priorities for the Dutch presence in Makassar: economy, culture and people-to-people relations.

He also announced plans for a periodic visa-at-your-doorstep service in Makassar, which will allow Sulawesi residents to apply for Dutch visas locally without having to travel to Jakarta, Bali or Surabaya.

Adriaan emphasised the EU–Indonesia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement as one of the important foundations for expanding two-way trade and investment.

“Currently, the Netherlands is the eighth largest investor in Indonesia,” he said.

According to him, Makassar holds a strategic position as the gateway to eastern Indonesia, so the presence of the diplomatic representative can further strengthen international cooperation networks.

“The Makassar City Government welcomes the presence of the Honorary Consulate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands for Sulawesi. Hopefully it can become a bridge that further strengthens relations and opens up cooperation opportunities that provide benefits for the community,” said Aliyah Mustika Ilham.