In a forum held in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, Acting Maritime Affairs and Investment Coordinating Minister, Erick Thohir, highlighted the positive impact of the strategic and high-quality cooperation between Indonesia and China on the Indonesian economy. He noted a significant increase in trade and investment values between the two nations in recent years. Erick stated that Indonesia has achieved a trade surplus for 43 consecutive months, reaching USD 3 billion last month. This economic achievement underscores the fruitful collaboration discussed in the 4th Indonesia-China Business Partnership Forum. The comprehensive strategic partnership, initiated with President Xi Jinping's 21st Century Maritime Silk Road proposal in Jakarta in October 2013, has yielded crucial achievements. Noteworthy accomplishments include infrastructure connectivity, the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway, downstream industries, especially in critical minerals, and progress in green energy and energy transition. The collaboration has not only facilitated operational success but has also driven downstream industries, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
Acknowledging China's role as a pioneering investor, Erick commended their contribution to industrial downstreaming, significantly impacting economic diversification and equitable economic development in Indonesia. Erick highlighted Indonesia's efforts to enhance sustainable development cooperation in areas such as food security, energy, and health. This encompasses collaborations in herbal and food estate projects, fisheries, blue economic downstreaming, deep-sea research and observation, renewable energy development, biotechnology, and the establishment of the National Gene Bank in collaboration with BGI. Emphasizing the importance of talent development and vocational training, Erick stressed the significance of cooperation in science and technology, particularly for the combined population of over 1.7 billion in both countries. He invited investors and business leaders to focus not only on industrial performance but also on ESG principles, environmentally friendly technology, and advancing research and technology development in Indonesia. The event, attended by various dignitaries, showcased the commitment of both countries to fostering a cooperative environment for long-term and mutually beneficial collaboration across multiple sectors.
