President Prabowo Subianto Meets PM Justin Trudeau: Strengthening Strategic Cooperation Between Indonesia and Canada

Jakarta, INTI - The President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, held a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during the APEC Summit at the Lima Convention Center (LCC) in Peru. This meeting became a significant moment to strengthen diplomatic ties and strategic cooperation between the two countries, particularly in trade, renewable energy, education, and digital technology.

ICA-CEPA: A New Milestone in Indonesia-Canada Economic Relations

At the start of the meeting, President Prabowo expressed appreciation for the harmonious bilateral relations between Indonesia and Canada, which have been in place for decades. He emphasized that both countries have now completed the negotiations for the Indonesia-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (ICA-CEPA), a free trade agreement that will serve as a foundation for deeper economic cooperation.

“Canada is an important partner for Indonesia. For decades, our relationship has been very good. Now, with the completion of the CEPA, we are ready to take this relationship to the next level,” said President Prabowo.

ICA-CEPA is expected to provide broader market access for Indonesian products to Canada, including key commodities such as coffee, textiles, and agricultural products. In turn, Canada can expand its market presence in Indonesia with products in technology, logistics, and critical minerals.

Great Potential in Strategic Sectors

President Prabowo highlighted several sectors that offer great potential for collaboration between the two nations, including:

1. Renewable Energy:
   Indonesia, rich in renewable energy resources such as geothermal, hydro, and solar power, seeks to attract Canadian investment to develop green energy infrastructure. “We are very ambitious in transitioning to renewable energy, and we believe Canada can be an important partner in this effort,” emphasized President Prabowo.
2. Fisheries and Manufacturing:
   As a maritime nation, Indonesia has vast potential in the fisheries sector. President Prabowo invited Canada to invest in seafood processing technologies to add value to Indonesia's fishery products.
3. Digital Technology:
   In this era of digitalization, both countries see an opportunity to cooperate in information technology, including the development of artificial intelligence and data protection.

Memories and Commitment for the Future

In a warm atmosphere, President Prabowo reflected on the good relationship with Pierre Trudeau, the late father of PM Justin Trudeau and former Prime Minister of Canada. “I deeply admire your father’s leadership. I hope this good relationship will continue in the future,” said President Prabowo.

PM Trudeau responded with appreciation for Indonesia’s contributions on the global stage. “Congratulations on your exceptional leadership. Indonesia has faced many global challenges in a very positive manner,” he remarked.

Concrete Steps for the Future

PM Trudeau announced that Canada is planning to lead the largest trade mission to Indonesia in early 2025. This signals Canada's strong commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Indonesia. “We see Indonesia as a strategic partner in the Asia-Pacific region. Many Canadian businesses are very enthusiastic about these opportunities,” said Trudeau.

In addition, Canada is also committed to strengthening cooperation in the critical minerals sector, which is vital for the development of green technologies such as electric vehicle batteries.

Indonesia’s Economic Stability: Attracting Foreign Investment

During the meeting, President Prabowo outlined Indonesia’s achievements in maintaining economic stability amid global uncertainties. With an economic growth rate of 5.3% in 2024 and an inflation rate of 2%, Indonesia continues to be one of the best-performing economies in Southeast Asia.

According to data from the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), foreign direct investment in Indonesia reached USD 45 billion in the third quarter of 2024, with energy and technology sectors being major contributors.

“We ensure a conducive investment climate and provide full protection for foreign investments. Indonesia is the right place to grow together,” said President Prabowo.

Support from Indonesia’s Cabinet and Delegation

President Prabowo was accompanied by a number of ministers and high-ranking officials during the meeting, including Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of Trade Budi Santoso, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono. This delegation demonstrated Indonesia's commitment to bringing concrete solutions in various strategic discussions with Canada.

Conclusion: Building a Brighter Future Together

The bilateral meeting between President Prabowo and PM Trudeau marked a significant step in the diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. With the signing of the ICA-CEPA, Indonesia and Canada are opening the door for new opportunities that benefit both sides.

“Our cooperation is not just about economic gains, but also about creating a brighter future for the next generations,” said President Prabowo.