Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives Puan Maharani and Italian Chamber of Deputies President Lorenzo Fontana met during a bilateral session in Italy. In the current geopolitical climate, marked by crises, the importance of diplomacy between countries is crucial. Puan emphasised the significance of fostering inter-parliamentary dialogue and parliamentary diplomacy at all levels. On 30 January 2025, the House of Representatives set up the Bilateral Cooperation Group with Italy. Puan recognised the good relations between Indonesia and Italy and said further cooperation needs to be discussed together. She said the strong relationship between Indonesia and Italy is a solid foundation for enhancing economic cooperation that benefits both nations, especially after Indonesia joined BRICS.
Puan emphasised the enhancement of economic cooperation in the fields of education, culture, industry and agriculture. She encouraged cooperation in education between Indonesian and Italian universities, including joint degree programmes, lecturer and student exchanges, joint research, and international publications. Cooperation in tourism, youth and religious leader exchanges, and interfaith dialogue. The recent agreement between the Indonesian Navy and Italian Fincantieri concerning the procurement of two ships for the defence of Indonesia's sea territory was acknowledged. During the bilateral meeting, Puan invited Lorenzo Fontana, the Italian Chamber of Deputies President, to officially visit Indonesia.
