September 11, 2026 | 03:11 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - New Zealand Ambassador to Indonesia Philip Nathan Taula has opened discussions on potential collaboration between Wellington and the Surakarta administration. The diplomat shared the initiative following a bilateral meeting with Surakarta Mayor Respati Ardi at Surakarta City Hall on Thursday, September 10, 2026.
"We are exploring opportunities for partnership between the New Zealand government and the Solo municipal government, including in education," Taula said.
In addition to education, the discussion between the ambassador and the mayor touched on job opportunities in New Zealand. He noted that follow-up talks will further determine the specific frameworks of cooperation both sides can pursue.
Taula expressed his delight at returning to Surakarta. He last visited the city in 1998. "It is an honor to return to Solo," he remarked.
Mayor Respati emphasized that workforce collaboration is a priority area the Surakarta administration seeks to advance. He noted promising employment prospects in New Zealand that could benefit workers from Surakarta. "Strong opportunities exist, particularly in the agricultural sector," Respati said.
According to him, local workers are expected to gain experience in New Zealand for one to two years. Upon returning to Indonesia, their expertise can be applied to strengthen the domestic agricultural sector.
Respati also explored educational cooperation through student exchange programs. He noted that Surakarta students could gain firsthand experience and insights into New Zealand's advanced agricultural and farming sectors.
"We are currently exploring the opportunities," Respati said. "We will announce the official collaboration as soon as possible."
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