"Of course, we hope the current situation of trade war does not prolong," Siregar stated, after the inauguration ceremony of 16 Indonesian ambassadors by President Joko Widodo at the State Palace, Jakarta, on Monday.
According to Siregar, relations between Indonesia and the US, as well as with other countries, must consider the trade war situation which is expected to continue.
Increase in bilateral investment is among the missions that will be carried out by him.
"The focus is on how we can still maintain and keep accelerating (good economic relations) even though the global situation does not seem to recover soon. We will respond (to this trade war) wisely," Siregar noted.
Indonesia`s huge economic potential and strategic position are very attractive for other countries to be engaged with, including the US.
A number of leading sectors that can be developed through cooperation with other countries are energy and mineral resources, transportation, industry, as well as communication technology.
Siregar remarked that Indonesia will strive to strengthen economic cooperation by improving competitiveness as well as exploring cooperation opportunities, both in trade and investment.
Siregar is an economist who has served as deputy trade minister (2010-2011) and deputy finance minister (2011-2013).
On Oct 1, 2013, he was elected to serve as head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) until Nov 27, 2014.
Reporting by Yashinta Difa Pramudyani
Editing by Fardah Assegaf
Reporter: Antara
Editor: Suharto
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