The governments of Indonesia and Switzerland have committed to pursuing stronger cooperation in the manpower sector, the Indonesian Manpower Minister stated after meeting with the Swiss Ambassador in Jakarta in May 2024. The minister highlighted several agreements between Indonesia and Switzerland, such as the memorandum of understanding (MoU) regarding cooperation on labor and employment issues signed in 2019 and an MoU on an exchange of young professionals inked in 2021.
The minister remarked that Indonesia and Switzerland organized three editions of JWG alternately, with Indonesia scheduled to host the fourth edition in 2024. She noted that both governments consider the MoU important for their nations and deem it necessary to extend its active period, which ends in 2024.
The minister also drew attention to the agreement on the exchange of young professionals, describing it as a follow-up to the Indonesia-European Free Trade Association Comprehensive Economic Partnership. The minister observed that the two countries still face challenges implementing the agreement.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian government also moved to solidify employment cooperation with Albania by signing a Letter of Intent (LoI) in Jakarta. This LoI, aimed at enhancing capacities in various employment fields, was signed by the Secretary General of Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower and Albania’s Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation.
The Indonesian Manpower Minister emphasized that this partnership signifies a mutual commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation, promote safe and orderly migration flows, and uphold principles of equality and respect. The cooperation will encompass labor norms, social security systems, vocational training, youth employment, labor market enhancement, social protection for migrant workers, and efforts to combat human trafficking.
The minister also expressed optimism that these initiatives will foster greater opportunities and improve the quality of life for both nations, reflecting a shared commitment to mutual benefit and respect. While the LoI is not legally binding, it signifies Indonesia and Albania’s determination to explore meaningful collaborations that benefit their societies.
(Source: ANTARA News)
