ASIATODAY.ID, BISHKEK — Indonesia and Kyrgyzstan have stepped up efforts to strengthen bilateral trade, investment, and regional economic cooperation during Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister Muhammad Anis Matta’s official visit to Bishkek from July 1–3, as both countries prepare for the implementation of the Indonesia–Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (Indonesia–EAEU FTA).
The visit underscores Jakarta’s broader strategy to expand economic diplomacy across Central Asia and deepen commercial engagement with partners in the Islamic world, positioning Indonesia to tap new opportunities in the Eurasian market.
During meetings with Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Zheenbek Kulubaev and Deputy Foreign Minister Meder Abakirov, both sides agreed to revitalize bilateral relations by strengthening institutional dialogue through regular bilateral consultations and the Joint Commission on Economy and Trade Cooperation.
Anis Matta stressed that stronger political relations should deliver tangible economic benefits. He called for closer engagement between businesses, investors, and communities in both countries, while highlighting cultural exchanges and tourism as important drivers of trade, investment, and long-term economic cooperation.
Economic issues also dominated discussions with Deputy Minister of Economy and Trade Sultan Akhmatov and Deputy Head of Kyrgyzstan’s National Investment Agency Koychumanov Nurbekovich. Both sides agreed that governments should create a more business-friendly environment by facilitating business forums, easing visa procedures, exploring direct air links, and expanding cooperation in the creative economy.
A key focus of the visit was the Indonesia–EAEU Free Trade Agreement, signed in December 2025. Once ratified by Indonesia and all member states of the Eurasian Economic Union, including Kyrgyzstan, the pact is expected to lower trade barriers, improve market access, strengthen supply chains, and stimulate new investment flows between Southeast Asia and Eurasia.
For Indonesia, stronger ties with Kyrgyzstan represent more than a bilateral initiative. They form part of a broader strategy to diversify export destinations, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Indonesia’s economic presence in Central Asia.
As the Indonesia–EAEU Free Trade Agreement moves closer to implementation, both countries are seeking to translate diplomatic engagement into concrete gains for businesses, investors, and regional economic integration. (AT Network)
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