JAKARTA, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia is stepping up efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties with sub-Saharan African countries as part of a strategy to diversify export markets and enhance economic resilience amid global uncertainty, Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri said on Friday.
Speaking at a trade forum in Jakarta attended by diplomats from several African countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Ethiopia, Roro described Africa as a promising growth market and a strategic long-term partner for Indonesia.
"Strengthening economic relations with African countries is a strategic step to build shared resilience," she said.
According to the Trade Ministry, Indonesia's trade with Africa currently stands at about 18.5 billion U.S. dollars, accounting for around 3.5 percent of the country's total trade.
The government sees opportunities to expand exports of products such as palm oil, processed foods and paper, while deepening economic cooperation and bilateral partnerships across the region.
