European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has introduced a new visa policy aimed at facilitating Indonesian citizens’ entry into the European Union. This policy grants a multi-entry Schengen visa to Indonesians who are visiting the EU for the second time. The announcement was made during a joint press conference with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Berlaymont Building in Brussels. Von der Leyen highlighted that this visa policy is not only about simplifying travel but also about strengthening the long-term connections between Indonesia and the EU, especially in areas like education, investment, and cultural exchange. This move is part of the people-to-people connections pillar in the EU-Indonesia strategic partnership, emphasizing the building of bridges between the two peoples. President Prabowo welcomed the enhancement of EU-Indonesia relations and emphasized the significance of trust and shared values in fostering long-term partnerships. He expressed his desire for a finalized Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to be signed in Brussels, further solidifying the cooperation between Indonesia and the EU. The deepening of economic partnerships and the implementation of the new visa policy signify a new era in EU-Indonesia bilateral relations, characterized by increased openness, strategic collaboration, and mutual benefits for their citizens.

