TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Diplomatic relationship between Indonesia and Italy entered its 70^th year. Relationship between Indonesia and Italy was first established on 1949 following Italy’s recognition over Indonesia’s independence.

Italian Ambassador to Indonesia Vittorio Sandalli asserted that diplomatic relationship between both countries is on a good level. High ranking officials from both countries had conducted work visits within the past years. Italian President had also visited Indonesia about three years ago followed by a number of bilateral visits to discuss economic development in both countries. Further, the Italian Deputy Foreign Minister had also visited Indonesia to attend the Bali Democracy Forum.

Presently, the bilateral partnership between Indonesia and Italy will be focused on developing economic relationship, among others, by increasing investments in Indonesia, creating new jobs, and transfer of technology. Likewise, Italy will create opportunities to allow more Indonesian investors to make investments in the country.

"2019 is a special year because we commemorate 70 years of Indonesia Italy diplomatic relations. Therefore, 2019 is a good moment to continue to develop and improve relationships between the two countries," said Ambassador Sandalli to Tempo after the European Union Award for Journalists (#eu4wartawan) event in Jakarta on Friday, February 8, 2019.

Trade value between Indonesia and Italy in 2018 was recorded at around USD 3 billion (equals to approximately IDR 42 trillion). The number showed an increase compared to previous years with a trade surplus recorded by Indonesia. Sandalli mentioned that the increasing number marks a positive tone in the improvement of bilateral partnership between the two countries.

One of the events held to commemorate the 70 years diplomatic relationship is the Italian science, technology, innovation, and industrial capacity exhibition, which is scheduled to be held on March 5, 2019, in Jakarta. The event was initiated by the Embassy of Italy, the Italian Trade Commission, the Italian Businesses Association, and the Italian Cultural Institute in Jakarta.

"Italians have known Indonesians through people to people relationship. Now, we want the Italian science and industrial capability to be known by Indonesia," Sandalli said.

TEMPO TEAM