Indonesia and New Zealand are looking to deepen cooperation in food security and renewable energy, with agriculture, cattle farming, geothermal and solar power among the areas being prioritised.

The two countries discussed the areas during the 13th Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) meeting between Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters in Auckland on Friday (August 28).

“Food security is one of the strategic areas in Indonesia-New Zealand relations to meet the needs of Indonesian society, children and the younger generation,” Sugiono said in a statement issued by Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry on Saturday.

The ministers discussed practical steps to improve agricultural productivity and develop cattle farming as part of efforts to strengthen food security.

They also agreed to encourage greater capacity-building in renewable energy, particularly geothermal and solar power in Indonesia.

Trade was another focus, with the two sides discussing halal certification as a way to facilitate and expand the export and import of halal products between Indonesia and New Zealand.

The two countries also agreed to continue expanding scholarship opportunities for Indonesian students, particularly in fields that support national development priorities.

On regional issues, Indonesia and New Zealand reaffirmed their commitment to supporting stability, peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific through cooperation in regional forums, including ASEAN and the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).

Sugiono welcomed New Zealand’s upcoming chairmanship of the PIF in 2027 and expressed hope that it would contribute to closer regional cooperation.

The JMC serves as the main forum for reviewing bilateral relations and identifying opportunities to expand cooperation between the two countries.

The latest meeting also reviewed implementation of the Indonesia-New Zealand Comprehensive Partnership Action Plan for 2025–2029 and preparations for the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and New Zealand in 2028.