TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian entrepreneurs will explore market opportunities in Central and Eastern Europe to expand their business in the region.

"The enthusiasm of businessmen could be seen at the question and answer session on business opportunities in Central and Eastern European markets, especially Russia, Hungary, and Serbia," said Acting Director of Central and Eastern Europe Ibnu Hadi, as quoted by Antara News.

He noted that to follow it up, a Joint Commission Meeting between Indonesia and Russia will be held in Kazan, Russia, on April 7 to 9, 2015.

According to Ibnu Hadi, the Central and Eastern European region (ETT) comprises 22 countries offering many opportunities to entrepreneurs from other countries.

However, there are still many Indonesian businessmen who do not completely understand the business in the Central and Eastern European region.

Many businessmen were present at the business dialogue entitled the 'Market Promotion of Central and Eastern Europe', which was organized by the Directorate of Central and Eastern Europe of the Foreign Ministry in Jakarta on January 29.

Some 27 participants from 22 companies engaged in diverse businesses attended the event. They included PT Indofood, PT Mustika Ratu, PT Gajah Tunggal, PT Indoexim International, PT Comexindo, PT Tehnika Ina, PT Sanbe Farma, PT Kalbe Farma, and PT Lautan Niaga Jaya.

"Business dialogues are essential for improving the cooperation between the private sector and the Ministry for the implementation of economic diplomacy. This meeting focused on the Central and Eastern European region," he explained.

So far, the ETT market has remained open to Indonesian export products. In 2013, the total value of trade between Indonesia and the ETT's countries was nearly US$6.5 billion, up 0.87 percent from 2012. During January to October 2014, the total value of Indonesia's trade with the ETT's countries amounted to US$4.42 billion.

ANTARA NEWS