President Prabowo's Strategic Dialogue with US Corporations Strengthens Economic Ties with Indonesia

Jakarta, INTI  - On Monday, November 11, 2024, President Prabowo Subianto met with members of The United States–Indonesia Society (USINDO) in the prestigious Dumbarton Room of the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington, D.C. The meeting saw him engaged in constructive discussions with leading executives from major American corporations, including Freeport, Chevron, General Electric, and other prominent companies that have substantial investments in Indonesia.

In his statement following the meeting, President Prabowo expressed satisfaction with the enthusiasm of US companies to support Indonesia’s economic growth. “They have been deeply involved in Indonesia’s economy and development. Many have been here for a long time and continue to believe in Indonesia and our economic future,” he noted. President Prabowo also urged these corporations to maintain their investment momentum and align with Indonesia’s development plans, fostering sustainable progress.

Commitment to Anti-Corruption and Transparency

An important highlight of the dialogue was President Prabowo’s strong stance on corruption, which he described as a “cancer” for the economy. He assured US corporate leaders that Indonesia’s policies aim to eliminate corruption across all levels. This firm approach to governance was warmly welcomed by USINDO’s corporate members, as transparency and integrity are highly valued by international investors.

Investment Minister and Head of the Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), Rosan Roeslani, who accompanied President Prabowo in the meeting, commented on the productivity of the discussions. “President Prabowo even said that if there are any corruption issues or problems, they should directly contact him. This message is very clear, and the corporations responded with a positive, appreciative response,” Roeslani said, highlighting the President’s straightforward and transparent approach.

Focus on Renewable Energy and Sustainability

The discussions also covered renewable energy, with large energy corporations showing interest in investing in technologies like carbon capture and geothermal energy to help Indonesia achieve its net-zero emissions targets. By addressing energy efficiency, these initiatives align well with Indonesia’s commitment to a greener economy and also attract global companies willing to contribute to sustainable development.

In his remarks, Roeslani emphasized that simplifying bureaucratic processes is essential to attract further foreign investments that would bring widespread benefits to the people of Indonesia. This sentiment reflects President Prabowo’s efforts to create a business-friendly environment and reduce red tape, streamlining the investment process.

USINDO’s Future Plans to Deepen Indonesia-US Economic Relations

Ted Osius, US Deputy Ambassador and advisor to USINDO, expressed appreciation for President Prabowo’s pro-business stance. Osius conveyed excitement about the meeting and announced that a delegation of American business leaders would be visiting Indonesia in early December. "We’re very excited to have a president in Indonesia who is so pro-business and welcoming. His approach was clear and positive, reinforcing his commitment to embrace both American and other foreign businesses,” said Osius.

The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Foreign Minister Sugiono, Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Stella Christie, and Chargé d’Affaires at the Indonesian Embassy in Washington, D.C., Ida Bagus Made Bimantara.