New EU visa policy eases Indonesians' travel access

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The European Union (EU) has announced a new visa policy for Indonesian nationals, making them eligible for a multi-entry Schengen visa upon their second entry into EU countries.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in a joint press statement with President Prabowo Subianto on Sunday, stated that the European Commission decided to adopt a "visa cascade" policy for Indonesian passport holders.

"It means that 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 explained.

She noted that the multi-entry visa facility will not only make it easier for Indonesian nationals to visit EU countries but also to invest, study, or expand their networks.

"In short, we are building a bridge between our societies," the European Commission president emphasized.

According to von der Leyen, Indonesia-EU cooperation must yield a positive outcome for the people in Indonesia and EU countries. "They should be the first to benefit from our stronger ties," she remarked.

At the same event, President Prabowo expressed hope for greater European involvement in supporting Indonesia’s economic development.

"We consider Europe very important to us. That is why we would like to see more European presence and more European participation in our economy," Prabowo stated.

Prabowo highlighted that the conclusion of the Indonesia–European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) marks a breakthrough after a decade of negotiations.

He expressed optimism that the agreement will accommodate the interests of both sides and deliver mutual benefits.

The president also commended both Indonesian ministers and EU commissioners for successfully resolving strategic issues and any disagreements during the talks.

In addition to meeting the European Commission president, President Prabowo also met with European Council President António Costa. He continued his agenda in Brussels by meeting King Philippe of Belgium at the Laeken Royal Palace.