Jakarta, March 2 -- Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso and the Investment, Industry, and Trade Minister of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, on Monday have launched negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Indonesia and Uzbekistan.

According to a written statement, the launch was marked by the signing of a joint statement by both parties via video conference. In addition, both sides signed an Agreement on Trade and Investment Cooperation.

"Today's launch of the Indonesia-Uzbekistan FTA negotiations marks a significant step in strengthening trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. We are optimistic that this agreement will be a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable economic growth," Santoso said.

The initi...