Foreign Minister: Madagascar serves as Indonesia's gateway to Africa's mineral wealth

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has emphasised the importance of Indonesia strengthening cooperation with Madagascar, given that the nation serves as a gateway to accessing the mineral wealth of the African continent.

“Madagascar is in a very strategic geographical position, which also serves as an entry point to Africa. They possess natural wealth, particularly minerals required for advanced industry and technology,” said Sugost Sugiono following a bilateral meeting with Madagascar’s Foreign Minister Alice N’Diaye at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs complex in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Sugiono noted that Indonesia and Madagascar have recorded a positive trend in bilateral trade so far. He added that this reflects the importance of expanding relations between the business sectors of both nations and exploring new investment opportunities.

He also reaffirmed the commitment to mutual support between Indonesia and Madagascar in meeting the domestic and industrial needs of both countries, as well as deepening cooperation in key sectors. These sectors, according to Sugiono, include mineral resources, energy, finance, and the creative economy.

The Indonesian Foreign Minister welcomed the agreement on visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passports between the two nations, which is expected to facilitate closer coordination between officials, including within the business sector. He also mentioned discussions regarding further visa exemptions or facilitation for the business community to boost interaction and partnerships between the two countries’ enterprises.

Meanwhile, in a press statement following the bilateral meeting, Madagascar’s Foreign Minister Alice N’Diaye stated that her country has identified mining and natural resources as high-potential sectors for cooperation with Indonesia.

She noted that significant potential also exists in renewable energy, special economic zones, light industry, agriculture, fisheries, the blue economy, and tourism. “We hope to further encourage investment, technology transfer, and commodity value addition with Indonesia,” said N’Diaye.

Minister N’Diaye also assessed Indonesia as an increasingly important partner, noting that Indonesia and Madagascar share strong complementary economic ties.