European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently announced a new visa policy aimed at facilitating easier entry into the European Union for Indonesian citizens. Under this new policy, starting immediately, Indonesians making their second visit to the EU will now be eligible for a multi-entry Schengen visa. This announcement was made during a joint press conference with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Berlaymont Building in Brussels. Von der Leyen emphasized that this visa policy is not just about simplifying travel but also about strengthening long-term connections between the people of Indonesia and the EU, particularly in the areas of education, investment, and social exchange. This initiative is part of the people-to-people connections pillar, which is a key focus in the EU-Indonesia strategic partnership, aiming at building bridges between the two nations. President Prabowo welcomed this development, highlighting the importance of enhanced people mobility in deepening EU-Indonesia ties. He expressed his view of Europe as a crucial partner in maintaining global stability and emphasized the need for a strong partnership based on mutual trust and shared values. He also expressed hope for the finalization and signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two sides, looking forward to further collaborations and agreements. This new visa policy and the deepening economic partnership signal a new phase in the bilateral relations between Indonesia and the European Union, characterized by increased openness, strategic cooperation, and mutual benefits for the citizens of both regions.
EU Visa Policy Update: Easier Access for Indonesians
