Trade between Indonesia and Namibia remains low and there is a need to increase and diversify trade and investment between the two countries, Indonesia’s Ambassador to Namibia, Wisnu Edi Pratignyo has said.
Pratignyo, while officially opening a business forum here on Wednesday, said the close ties between the two countries are not accompanied by significant progress in the economic sector.
The one-day business forum was hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Namibia.
Pratignyo said for the two countries to improve trade and investment, the two presidents during the bilateral talks in August 2018 agreed to explore economic opportunities, not only by way of trade and investment cooperation, but also in the sectors of agriculture, fisheries, tourism and infrastructure development.
The ambassador said over the past three decades, Namibia and Indonesia have built a partnership founded on shared interests, mutual respect and people-to-people ties.
“Our everyday interactions are highlighted by increasing economic cooperation including trade, investment, tourism, agricultural and technical cooperation,” he stated.
According to Pratignyo the business forum was held for the two countries to share their experiences in dealing with business and investment opportunities, particularly infrastructure development, best practices in agriculture and small and medium enterprises, as well as tourism cooperation that Indonesia could offer to Namibia.
“I sincerely hope this forum serves not only to strengthen people-to-people contact but also as a platform for us to exchange information and views on matters which will have a tremendous impact on the effort to enhance our mutually profitable trade relations and investments,” he said.
Lüderitz Mayor Anna-Marie Hartzenberg pledged the Lüderitz local authority’s commitment to work, support and cooperate with the people of Indonesia in addressing the challenges hampering the progression of the local economy.
“We took a solemn vow that we will serve the people and the business community of our town hence it is embedded on us to create a conducive working environment for any business or project beneficial to our local economy,” she said.
Source: The Namibia Press Agency
