European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently announced a new visa policy that will simplify travel for Indonesian citizens visiting the European Union. This new policy allows Indonesians making their second visit to the EU to be eligible for a multi-entry Schengen visa. The announcement was made during a press conference with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Brussels, emphasizing the aim of strengthening long-term ties between Indonesia and the EU.
Von der Leyen highlighted that this visa policy is not just about facilitating travel but also about fostering deeper connections in areas such as education, investment, and social exchange. The move is seen as a step to enhance people-to-people connections, a key aspect of the EU-Indonesia strategic partnership.
President Prabowo welcomed the deepening of ties between the EU and Indonesia, emphasizing the importance of trust and shared values in building long-term relationships. He expressed hope for the finalization and signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Brussels, further solidifying the partnership between the two regions.
Overall, the new visa policy and potential economic partnership signify a new chapter in EU-Indonesia relations, characterized by increased openness, strategic cooperation, and mutual benefits for citizens of both regions. This move is aligned with the message of openness and partnership during challenging times, emphasizing the shared opportunity for growth and collaboration between Europe and Indonesia.
