Foreign Ministry: Indonesia-EU Economic Cooperation Does Not Neglect Human Rights Aspects
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia will continue to promote human rights advancement alongside efforts to strengthen cooperation with the European Union in various fields, including the economy, through constructive dialogue and mutual respect.
“Indonesia continues to promote open dialogue and mutual respect with the European Union to enhance understanding among the parties,” said Spokesperson of the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) Vahd Nabyl A. Mulachela in response to an ANTARA question in Jakarta on Saturday.
He stated that such efforts are carried out, among others, through the Indonesia-EU Human Rights Dialogue, with the latest edition held in Indonesia in February.
Such dialogues, he said, are key to strengthening cooperation between the two parties in various fields, including the economy.
“Indonesia views economic cooperation and respect for human rights as two complementary matters that need to be strengthened simultaneously,” Nabyl emphasised.
With this approach, Indonesia is increasingly optimistic that a balanced and constructive partnership, with strong awareness of human rights, can continue to be developed with the European Union, according to the Kemlu spokesperson.
It is known that Indonesia hosted the 11th Indonesia-EU Human Rights Dialogue held in Yogyakarta on 11 February 2026.
The meeting was co-chaired by the Director of Human Rights and Migration of the Indonesian Kemlu and the Head of the Southeast Asia Division of the European External Action Service (EEAS), and attended by the Indonesian Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union, Andy Rachmianto, according to a statement from the Indonesian Embassy in Brussels.
On that occasion, Ambassador Andy emphasised the spirit of dialogue to continue prioritising principles of mutual respect, equality, and commitment to making concrete cooperation that brings mutual benefits as tangible achievements.
The Indonesia-EU Human Rights Dialogue is a forum for exchanging views on various best practices in advancing and protecting human rights in each country and region.
The forum also discussed global dynamics and their impact on various strategic issues in relation to strengthening joint efforts towards advancing human rights values.