Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, met with Canada's Ambassador to Indonesia and Timor-Leste, Jess Dutton, in Jakarta on Wednesday, November 6. The two discussed expediting the free trade agreement between their countries. 

 

"We will coordinate to finalize the ICA-CEPA as soon as possible," said Airlangga, as quoted by Antara. 

 

ICA-CEPA is a comprehensive economic partnership agreement between Indonesia and Canada. Airlangga expressed hope that the trade negotiations could be completed and signed in the near future. 

 

Several key issues under discussion are expected to reach a resolution during the ongoing ICA-CEPA negotiations in Bandung, which have entered their 10th round. In addition to discussing ICA-CEPA, they also talked about plans for a Canadian trade mission delegation and various potential cooperation projects prioritized by both countries. 

 

Airlangga also highlighted several priorities of the Indonesian government under President Prabowo, including food security and energy, with a particular focus on renewable energy. 

 

Ambassador Dutton mentioned that Canada's trade mission is scheduled to visit Indonesia this December.  

 

"Canada's Minister of Trade and more than 200 Canadian business delegates from various sectors will explore potential cooperation opportunities that are priorities for both countries and gain a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s business regulations," Dutton said. 

 

The visit will also include several high-level bilateral meetings. Minister Airlangga expressed his support for the trade mission. 

 

Dutton further highlighted various joint priorities between the two nations, including Indonesia's accession processes for the OECD, CPTPP, and the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP).  

 

Several clean energy projects under the JETP partnership are expected to be implemented soon. He emphasized that Indonesia’s commitment to accelerating the OECD accession process, CPTPP participation, and JETP optimization requires continued support. 

 

Original article here

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