Indonesia Seeks Germany's Support to Complete IEU-CEPA Negotiations

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian President's Chief of Staff, Moeldoko, has sought support from Germany to the completion of negotiations of the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA).

He conveyed the request during a meeting with the Minister of State at the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, Tobias Lindner, in Jakarta on Wednesday, November 8, 2023.

Moeldoko assessed that the agreement is essential to create a mutually agreed-upon regulation for trade competition in the European market between Indonesia and the EU.

The IEU-CEPA also has the potential to encourage national economic growth, create new jobs, and give rise to new opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

"I think that this cooperation is on the right track, especially in the fields of energy transition, environment, downstreaming, and electric cars," he noted in a written statement from the Presidential Staff Office (KSP).

At the meeting, he also commended the positive development in Indonesia-Germany diplomatic relations that have been established for 71 years.

In the investment sector, Moeldoko welcomed Germany's investment in Indonesia, which is focused on priority sectors, for instance, export-related industries and the electric vehicle (EV) industrial ecosystem, especially on strategic mineral commodities, which have huge potential to attract investment.

"The demand and supply for EVs are not yet balanced. Of course, it can be a good opportunity for Germany's investment in Indonesia," he remarked.

Germany is the third-biggest European investor in Indonesia, with an investment value of US$117,820.2 million in 2023 spread across 1,156 projects.

"To mark 71 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Germany, it is evident that we are opening up various potentials for good cooperation, especially to increase domestic productivity and human resources," Moeldoko remarked.

Lindner explained that his visit to Jakarta demonstrates Germany's commitment to cooperation with Indonesia, especially in sustainable development.

He affirmed that support from both parties is the main capital in strengthening relations that have been constructively built and based on the same fundamental values shared by the two countries.

He assured that Germany has the same interests and is happy to cooperate with Indonesia.

Regarding the IEU-CEPA, Lindner stated that his side will assess what type of support can be offered to Indonesia.

ANTARA

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