In brief
During a G20 meeting in Atlanta on Oct. 30, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Indonesian Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir, who began office on Oct. 1, discussed deepening cooperation in defense, energy, trade and advanced technology. They reaffirmed the special comprehensive strategic partnership launched in April and pledged to improve diplomatic and security communication. South Korea also asked Indonesia to support its companies operating there.
In Atlanta on Thursday (U.S. time), South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Indonesian Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir met as part of the Group of 20 foreign ministers’ session, marking their first talks since Nasir took office on Oct. 1. The meeting was held during the G20 gathering scheduled for Oct. 30‑31, a forum that brings together leaders to address global economic and security issues.
Both ministers reiterated that the two countries had elevated their bilateral ties to a special comprehensive strategic partnership during President Prabowo Subianto’s state visit to South Korea in April. They agreed to build on that upgraded relationship and expand cooperation across several key sectors.
Background and next steps
During the discussions, Cho and Nasir focused on defense and the defense industry, trade and investment, energy security, and advanced technology cooperation. They also touched on other areas that could benefit both nations, stressing the importance of a broader, multidisciplinary partnership.
Cho urged the Indonesian government to continue offering support and attention to South Korean companies operating in Indonesia, emphasizing the need for smoother business conditions. The ministry cited the importance of stable commercial environments for sustaining investment flows between the two countries.
Both sides agreed to strengthen strategic communication in diplomatic and security fields, establishing a framework for future coordination on shared security and economic challenges. This pact signals a deeper alignment between Seoul and Jakarta as they navigate regional and global dynamics.
