New Zealand and Indonesia have launched agreed to launch a new Plan of Action designed to deepen bilateral relations over the next five years.
This ambitious plan, unveiled during talks in Auckland, sets the stage for enhanced cooperation in various sectors, from trade and education to renewable energy and environmental sustainability.
New Zealand and Indonesia have committed to a significant goal: increasing two-way trade to NZ$6 billion by 2029. This marks a notable jump from previous targets and highlights both nations’ desire to strengthen economic ties. The plan includes specific strategies to boost trade, such as:
- Improving halal certification processes.
- Reducing non-tariff barriers.
- Enhancing trade cooperation under the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA).
- Leveraging the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) for economic integration.
This focus on halal cooperation is particularly relevant given Indonesia’s significant Muslim population and the growing demand for halal-certified products.
Promoting Renewable Energy and Environmental Collaboration
Renewable energy cooperation is another cornerstone of the new plan. With New Zealand’s long-standing expertise in geothermal energy, the partnership aims to support Indonesia’s transition to more sustainable energy sources.
Main areas of focus include:
- Geothermal energy development: Continued investment and knowledge sharing.
- Climate change initiatives: Joint research on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Marine ecosystem protection: Collaborations to safeguard marine environments.
Initiatives in the Plan of Action 2025-2029
Sector |
Key Initiatives |
Target Year |
|---|---|---|
| Trade & Economy | Increase two-way trade to NZ$6 billion | 2029 |
| Renewable Energy | Expand geothermal and renewable energy cooperation | Ongoing |
| Education & Tourism | Implement a joint Working Holiday Scheme | 2025 |
| Environmental Action | Enhance marine protection and climate change mitigation | Ongoing |
| Security & Regional | Strengthen regional security and counter-terrorism efforts | Ongoing |
Enhancing People-to-People Connections
Education and tourism are critical areas of focus in the new plan, recognizing the value of people-to-people connections. New Zealand and Indonesia aim to expand educational exchanges and tourism opportunities, fostering a deeper understanding and stronger ties between their citizens.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters said,
“We also agreed to work towards a joint Working Holiday Scheme and closer education cooperation in recognition that people-to-people connections are the heart of any strong partnership.”
The plan also includes efforts to enhance scientific collaboration and innovation, particularly in areas like public sector performance and governance.
This collaboration aims to share best practices and support Indonesia’s aspirations to join the OECD, further integrating the nation into the global economic system.
Security, Regional, and Multilateral Cooperation
Security and regional stability are vital aspects of the Plan of Action. The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based international order and discussed various security issues, including counter-terrorism and maritime security.
The Ministers also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation through ASEAN and other multilateral forums, highlighting their shared interests in promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
To Conclude
This new Plan of Action between New Zealand and Indonesia marks a significant step forward in their bilateral relations.
With ambitious goals across multiple sectors, the plan sets a course for enhanced cooperation and mutual benefit.
As both nations look towards the future, they are committed to building on their strong partnership and delivering tangible outcomes for their people and the broader region.
Sources: THX News & New Zealand Government.
