Indonesian Ambassador: Looking Forward to Expanding Cooperation with Kuwait
The Indonesian Ambassador to Kuwait, Lina Mariana, confirmed that Kuwait-Indonesia relations are witnessing continuous growth across various levels. She noted that the two countries are celebrating the 58th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties this year, expressing her country’s aspiration to expand bilateral and comprehensive cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, energy, education, and culture.
In a speech delivered during a ceremony held to mark the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence, attended by Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaima, several ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Kuwait, and a large number of citizens, Mariana stated that the participation of such a large gathering of guests “reflects the strength of the relations binding Kuwait and Indonesia, and drives both countries to continue working to enhance cooperation in a manner that serves the interests of both peoples.”
She announced that the two countries have agreed to hold the second session of the Joint Ministerial Committee in late November next year, while efforts are underway to finalize arrangements for the first Indonesia-Kuwait Energy Forum to be held in Jakarta.
In the commercial field, the Ambassador expressed her hope for continued growth in trade between the two countries, targeting an annual increase of no less than 10 percent, while working to achieve a greater balance in trade volume.
She highlighted her country’s hope to complete negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement between Indonesia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) by 2026. She pointed out that in the ranking of investor countries in Indonesia, Kuwait held the 87th position in 2024, followed by the 90th position in 2025.
Mariana praised the visit of 12 outstanding Kuwaiti students to Indonesia in January 2026, sponsored by the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, during which they reviewed several vital projects funded by the Fund in Indonesia since 1960.
In the educational sector, she commended Kuwaiti scholarships and Arabic language teaching programs, noting that four Indonesian students are currently studying on full scholarships provided by the Kuwaiti government. She expressed her hope for the continuation of these programs and an increase in the number of beneficiaries.
Regarding tourism, she revealed that the number of tourists traveling from Kuwait to Indonesia reached 5,166 in 2025, compared to 5,090 in 2024, affirming her country’s aspiration to increase the number of Kuwaiti tourists and enhance tourism exchange between the two nations.
The Ambassador praised Kuwait’s role in supporting humanitarian and relief efforts worldwide, noting that several schools in rural areas of Indonesia were built and are operating effectively thanks to aid provided by Kuwaiti charitable associations.
She emphasized that Kuwait has become home to many nationalities, including more than 6,000 Indonesians working in the health, oil, gas, hospitality, and industrial sectors. She added that the Indonesian government encourages increasing the recruitment of skilled labor to Kuwait.
