Zambia, Indonesia deepen tiesaAhead of diplomatic milestone

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Zambia and Indonesia have moved to strengthen bilateral relations, with both countries identifying mining, agriculture, manufacturing and renewable energy as key sectors for enhanced cooperation ahead of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

The commitment was reaffirmed during the first-ever Foreign Office Consultations between the two countries, held as part of efforts to elevate political relations into stronger economic and development partnerships.


Speaking during the consultations, Indonesian Ambassador to Zambia Arief Hidayat said Zambia and Indonesia share a rich history rooted in their struggles for independence and their common commitment to sovereignty, justice and equality.

Mr. Hidayat described the inaugural consultations as a milestone in bilateral relations, saying they reflected the determination of both governments to deepen cooperation and unlock new opportunities for growth.

He noted that trade between the two countries reached approximately US$11 million in 2025, with Indonesia importing products such as tobacco from Zambia. However, he said the current trade volumes remain far below the potential that exists between the two nations.

"There is significant untapped potential in mining, agriculture, manufacturing and other strategic sectors. Indonesia stands ready to work closely with Zambia to build a partnership that is purposeful, sustainable and beneficial to future generations," Mr. Hidayat said.

He added that as the two countries prepare to commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations, the consultations provide an important platform for taking cooperation to a higher level.

The ambassador further stated that Indonesia regards Zambia not only as a friend but also as a brother nation with shared aspirations for a more equitable and prosperous world.

According to Mr. Hidayat, the next phase of engagement should focus on transforming the strong political relations that already exist into concrete economic cooperation capable of delivering tangible benefits for citizens in both countries.


Speaking at the same event, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary and Head of Delegation Anamela Etambuyu described the consultations as a landmark event that marks a new chapter in Zambia–Indonesia relations.

Ms. Etambuyu said the meeting demonstrates the shared commitment of both governments to deepen dialogue, strengthen mutual understanding and advance practical cooperation across a wide range of sectors.

She expressed confidence that the consultations would help elevate bilateral relations while creating opportunities to identify new areas of collaboration and establish a forward-looking agenda for future engagement.

Ms. Etambuyu noted that Zambia and Indonesia have maintained cordial relations over the years based on mutual respect, the principles of non-alignment and common aspirations for peace, stability and sustainable development.

She said the consultations provide an important platform for discussions on political cooperation, trade and investment, economic development and collaboration within multilateral institutions.

According to Ms. Etambuyu, Zambia is particularly interested in expanding cooperation in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, livestock development, mining, renewable energy, tourism and cultural exchange.

She further emphasized the importance of strengthening South-South cooperation and expressed optimism that the discussions would lay a strong foundation for structured and sustained engagement between the two countries.

Ms. Etambuyu reaffirmed Zambia's commitment to working closely with Indonesia to consolidate and expand bilateral cooperation as the two nations approach the celebration of five decades of diplomatic relations.


Meanwhile, Acting Director General for Asia-Pacific and African Affairs in Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dewi Justicia Meidiwaty, said officials from both countries had already held extensive discussions on areas of mutual interest and potential cooperation ahead of the consultations.

Ms. Meidiwaty described the meeting as both timely and important, noting that it provided an opportunity to review progress made in bilateral cooperation while identifying new avenues for partnership.

The inaugural Foreign Office Consultations are expected to pave the way for stronger institutional engagement and increased economic cooperation between Zambia and Indonesia, as both countries seek to leverage their longstanding friendship to drive trade, investment and sustainable development.

 

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