RI, NZ to boost trade ties

JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia and New Zealand have agreed to promote private sector trade between each other and increase economic cooperation.

The agreement was a result of the first meeting of the New Zealand-Indonesia Economic Cooperation Joint Commission, which was held here yesterday.

Foreign ministry Director General of International Economic Relations Soemadi Brotodiningrat led the Indonesian delegation, while his counterpart was New Zealand foreign ministry Deputy Secretary Alastair Bisley.

The officials exchanged information on economic issues in both countries, and regional and global economic developments, the state news agency Antara reported.

They also discussed efforts to boost trade, investment, tourism and cooperation in cultural and agriculture activities, especially in the fishery sector.

The two countries agreed to conduct a feasibility study on increasing air transportation services.

In the fields of education and human resources, Indonesia asked New Zealand to allocate more scholarship funds. (08)