Indonesian-Bahrain Strengthen Economic Cooperation

Manama, MINA – Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Retno Marsudi paid a short one-day work visit in Manama, Bahrain on Tuesday, September 3. Strengthening economic cooperation was the focus of discussion during her visit.

During the visit, Retno had a meeting with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, Shaykh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa, HRH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa, HRH Crown Prince Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, and General Chairperson of KADIN Bahrain, Sameer Abdulla Ahmed Nass.

Some economic cooperation discussed included an agreement of investment and direct contact between entrepreneurs of the two countries. Bahrain plans to send a trade mission to Indonesia this year.

Indonesia conveyed its potential in the strategic industry sector. Both Foreign Ministers encouraged each party to participate in the Defense Exhibition, both held in Bahrain (October) and in Indonesia (November).

“The aircraft industry, military uniforms, missile maintenance RBS 17, and C-130 Helicopters are clear examples of strategic industrial cooperation that Indonesia-Bahrain can do,” Retno explained.

In addition to the economic sector, the two Foreign Ministers also discussed joint efforts to tackle transnational crime such as Terrorism and human trafficking.

Both Foreign Ministers agreed to create MoU on Trafficking in Persons (TPPO). This MoU is important for Indonesia to avoid TPPO crimes and to provide protection for Indonesian workers in Bahrain and the gulf country in general.

In various meetings, Prime Minister and Crown Prince of Bahrain expressed their desire to be able to visit Indonesia. The visit to Indonesia will inaugurate the Bahrain Embassy in Jakarta.

In a series of meetings, the Indonesian Foreign Minister also discussed developments in the region and the global situation that are common interest. In particular, the Palestinian issue was also discussed at various meetings.

Both Foreign Ministers have the same view on the importance of support for the Palestinian cause. Bahrain appreciates the active role of Indonesia in defending the struggle of Palestinian people.

Indonesia-Bahrain diplomatic relations officially began in 1976. Based on data of the Indonesian Ministry of Trade, the total trade between Indonesia-Bahrain in 2018 reached $116,613 million, with export value reaching $46.67 million. Meanwhile in 2017, total trade reached $206,308, with exports reaching $47,348. (T/Sj/P2)

Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)