Indonesia–Switzerland Partnership Forge New Era of Green and Digital Cooperation

Jakarta: Swiss Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin visited Indonesia from September 30 to October 3, 2025, bringing a business delegation to maximize cooperation with Indonesia.

Metrotvnews.com had the opportunity to conduct a written interview with Parmelin. The following is an excerpt from the interview:

1.As you visit Indonesia, what are the main areas of collaboration you’re most excited to explore in strengthening the partnership between Switzerland and Indonesia?

We aim to strengthen our cooperation with Indonesia, building on existing partnerships that align with Indonesia's "Asta Cita" vision. Through Switzerland’s economic development program and with strong involvement from our private sector, we support Indonesia’s main development goals.

During my time in Jakarta, I will, together with the Indonesian government, launch a new phase of the program, contributing to Indonesia’s transformation towards a more sustainable, resilient, and competitive economy. For instance, Switzerland has already participated in modernizing Indonesian polytechnic curricula to better match industry needs and strengthen education.

We also see great potential to grow trade between our two countries. Since 2021, the Indonesia-EFTA Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has been opening new opportunities by removing most tariffs. I am accompanied by several Swiss companies bringing advanced technologies and are looking to expand their presence. 

2.As Indonesia and Switzerland prepare to celebrate 75 years of bilateral relations, what areas of cooperation do you see as holding the greatest potential for the future?

Switzerland is very pleased with its strong and close relations with Indonesia, built on mutual trust and complementary strengths. As we look ahead to celebrating 75 years of diplomatic ties in 2026, I see great potential in combining Switzerland’s expertise in innovation with Indonesia’s dynamism and rapidly growing market. We learn from each other.

One area where this partnership can grow even further is energy security and green transition projects – areas where Switzerland and Indonesia complement each other. In this spirit, we are co-hosting a conference on sustainable infrastructure in Jakarta this Friday. Switzerland brings decades of experience in renewable technologies, energy efficiency, and grid management, while Indonesia offers vast natural resources and a bold vision for expanding its renewable energy mix.

3.Life sciences and healthcare are often seen as exciting fields for collaboration between Switzerland and Indonesia. Are there any fresh ideas or initiatives you’d like to see take shape in this area?

As a key hub for pharmaceuticals, biotech, R&D, and innovation, Swiss companies already make important contributions to Indonesia’s healthcare system. They are willing to help build a system that delivers excellent patient outcomes while strengthening economic resilience. Our companies are ready to work hand in hand with the government – for example, by expanding access to innovative medical solutions.

4.Apart from what’s already on the table, are there other opportunities Switzerland might bring forward to deepen its strategic partnership with Indonesia?

Our relations with Indonesia have developed very positively over the years, and I am impressed by the wide range of areas in which we cooperate. My aim during this visit is to give fresh momentum to our partnership.

I am struck by the contributions of the roughly 150 Swiss companies active in Indonesia. They bring innovation, create jobs, and are champions in corporate social responsibility and in their respective fields. At the same time, Switzerland supports Indonesian SMEs in exporting to Europe, including fish and seafood, technical wood, and natural ingredients.

We also see untapped potential in the metals and minerals sector. Indonesia offers rich natural resources and a highly capable workforce, while Switzerland serves as a global hub for commodities trading. More broadly, sustainability is the common thread that connects all our joint efforts.

5.How do you see the recent changes in geopolitics influencing the world economy today?

Global geopolitical dynamics are reshaping how countries approach trade. The rules-based global trading system has been under pressure for some time, and this poses challenges for open economies like Switzerland. Our response is to reinforce our outreach, to develop our ties with partners to diversify in ways that make us more resilient – while continuing to uphold trade that is based on rules and fairness.

Switzerland’s foreign economic policy rests on trusted partnerships across regions. In this context, our cooperation with Indonesia is more relevant than ever. Together, we can actively advance and strengthen the multilateral trading system.

6.Do you feel the current situation has affected the way people from Switzerland and Indonesia connect? And where do you see the biggest chances to grow those people-to-people ties even stronger?

Despite the geographical distance, exchanges between our countries are vibrant. Around 1,000 Swiss citizens live in Indonesia, many of them in Bali, while a growing number of Indonesians have made Switzerland their home. Tourism is also expanding, with more visitors from both sides discovering the natural beauty and cultural richness of our countries. Cultural diplomacy remains a powerful connector. Our appreciation is mutual. 
 

7.What kinds of cooperation between Switzerland and Indonesia do you think could further grow areas like education and tourism?

Education and tourism have long served as important bridges between Switzerland and Indonesia. About 50 years ago, Switzerland supported the creation of Polman Bandung and NHI, helping to strengthen skills development for Indonesia’s youth. I look forward to visiting Bandung during my stay.

In higher education, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships allow talented Indonesian students and researchers to pursue advanced studies and research at Swiss universities. There are important linkages between universities and University of Applied Sciences. 

In tourism, Switzerland and Indonesia share a common interest in promoting quality and sustainability. A concrete example is the cooperation with the Tourism Polytechnic in Lombok, where Switzerland, through the Ministry I head, has supported training programs in hospitality.

8.Are there any additional areas of defense cooperation that Switzerland might explore with Indonesia?

Our collaboration focuses on areas where Switzerland brings specific expertise and shares common interests with Indonesia. I am pleased to note that Switzerland supports Indonesia in key government priorities, such as enhancing energy and food security.

Another example is disaster risk management and humanitarian assistance. Today, Swiss experts work closely with their Indonesian counterparts on early-warning systems, risk mapping, and emergency preparedness – including efforts in Cianjur in 2022 and more recently around Mount Semeru. I believe this clearly illustrates the strong trust and solidarity between our countries.

Also read:  Indonesia Promises Business Certainty for Swiss Investors