TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Regional Representative Council (DPD) on Tuesday received a visit from the Federation Council of the Russian Federation headed by Valentina Ivanovna Matvienko. DPD chairman Irman Gusman said an important element in Indonesia’s growth is the strengthening of relations with other countries. “Especially with Russia,” said Irman.

In the meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Joko Widodo in Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Beijing, an agreement was made to increase trade value up to US$5 billion (Rp61 trillion) n 2015.

Irman invited Russia to be involved in regional development. He said Russia’s “east-centric” policy is in line with the strategic development in Asia-Pacific region, especially now as the region has become the locomotive of global economic growth.

Valentina Matvienko said her visit to Indonesia is a reply visit on DPD’s visit to Russia. She hoped the cooperation between Russia and Indonesia could strengthen further. “The meeting between two leaders in APEC will enhance the cooperation between both countries,” said Valentina.

In infrastructure, Indonesia and Russia plan to build railway track in Kalimantan. Valentina said the Russian government plans to provide scholarship for Indonesian students that will work on this project. One of Russia’s biggest company, Rusal, also plans to build an aluminium factory in Indonesia.

In the last three years, the trade value between both countries have increased. In 2010, the trade value was US$1.68 billion. In 2011, it increased to US$2.54 billion. In 2012, it increased further to US$3.37 billion and in 2013, it reached US$3.52 billion.

MUHAMMAD MUHYIDDIN