At the Indonesia–Vietnam Friendship Association (IVFA) Ramadan Iftar held in Jakarta on 10 March 2026, Prof. Dr. Ir. Rachmat Pambudy, Indonesia’s Minister for National Development Planning and Head of National Development Planning Agency (BAPPENAS), emphasized the growing strategic partnership between Indonesia and Vietnam.
In his remarks, the Minister reflected on the long-standing relationship between the two nations, noting that although geographically separated, Indonesia and Vietnam have historically shared a strong spirit of solidarity and mutual learning. In earlier decades, Vietnam closely studied Indonesia’s experience in achieving agricultural transformation and food self-sufficiency—an example of cooperation among developing nations striving for progress together.
Today, the relationship has evolved into a more balanced and forward-looking partnership. Vietnam’s rapid progress in manufacturing, export industries, and high-value sectors such as electronics and automotive production has positioned the country as one of Southeast Asia’s key economic engines alongside Indonesia within Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The Minister also outlined Indonesia’s development direction under the RPJMN 2025–2029, which aims to strengthen economic growth while improving human capital, infrastructure connectivity, industrial development, and digital transformation. Within this broader national agenda, collaboration with Vietnam plays an increasingly important role.
Several promising initiatives already demonstrate this expanding cooperation. These include partnerships between BAPPENAS and Vietnamese institutions on digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and the development of Low Altitude Economy and Digital Twin technologies. Collaboration is also growing in agriculture and agribusiness, fisheries, property and urban development, as well as biotechnology and animal health.
The Minister concluded by affirming that the Indonesia–Vietnam relationship today goes beyond traditional economic cooperation. Both countries, with their dynamic economies and young populations, are well positioned to work together in shaping the future of Southeast Asia and contributing to a more prosperous and resilient region.
