EU Visa Policy: Easier Travel for Indonesians
EU Introduces Multi-Entry Schengen Visas for Indonesian Nationals Following Second Visit
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Brussels, Belgium - The European Union (EU) has announced a notable enhancement to its visa policy for Indonesian citizens, introducing a multi-entry schengen visa facility for those who have made a second visit to EU member states. This new “visa cascade” policy aims to foster deeper connections and facilitate easier travel,investment,and cultural exchange between Indonesia and the EU.
Visa Cascade Policy: A Bridge Between Societies
european Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed the new policy during a joint press statement with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Brussels on Sunday. “From now on, Indonesian nationals visiting the European Union for a second time will be eligible for multi-entry Schengen visa,” President von der Leyen stated.
This initiative is designed to streamline the travel process for Indonesian citizens, enabling them to more readily pursue opportunities such as investment, study, and the expansion of professional networks within the Schengen Area. “In short, we are building a bridge between our societies,” President von der Leyen emphasized, highlighting the EU’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of stronger Indonesia-EU ties are directly felt by the people of both regions.
Indonesia-EU Economic Partnership and Future Cooperation
the announcement coincides with a period of strengthening economic ties between Indonesia and the EU, underscored by the recent conclusion of the Indonesia-European Union Complete Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA). President Prabowo expressed his optimism regarding the CEPA, describing it as a breakthrough after a decade of negotiations. He conveyed Indonesia’s desire for increased European involvement in supporting the nation’s economic progress.
“We consider Europe very significant to us. That is why we would like to see more European presence and more European participation in our economy,” President Prabowo stated. He expressed confidence that the CEPA will effectively accommodate the interests of both parties and yield mutual benefits, a sentiment echoed by Indonesian ministers and EU commissioners who successfully navigated strategic issues and disagreements during the talks.
Diplomatic Engagements in Brussels
President Prabowo’s visit to Brussels included a series of high-level diplomatic engagements. beyond his meeting with European Commission president von der Leyen, he also held discussions with European Council President António Costa. The indonesian President’s agenda also featured a meeting with king Philippe of Belgium at the Laeken Royal Palace, further cementing bilateral relations and exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation.
These diplomatic efforts underscore Indonesia’s proactive approach to strengthening its international partnerships, especially with key global economic blocs like the European Union, amidst a backdrop of global economic uncertainty. The new visa policy is expected to be a significant facilitator in this ongoing collaboration.
