There are several messages that I noted when I was asked to assume the post. One of them is the current account deficit that must become the center of our attention. Of course, in the future we must be able to work togetherJakarta (ANTARA) - Newly-inducted Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Arifin Tasrif has stated that one issue he would like to concentrate on is narrowing the current account deficit (CAD) resulting from oil and gas trade. "There are several messages that I noted when I was asked to assume the post. One of them is the current account deficit that must become the center of our attention. Of course, in the future we must be able to work together," he said in his address marking the transfer of the post of energy and mineral resources minister from his predecessor to him in Jakarta Wednesday.
He will attempt to learn quickly what has become the center of everyone’s attention particularly in the energy field, Tasrif said.
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"We are open to any inputs that may bring about improvement to the nation in view of so many tasks (I have to carry out). We can discuss (any issues) together to promote the people's welfare," he said.
Meanwhile, Tasrif's predecessor, Ignatius Jonan said his successor is not new to the energy sector.
"I hope he will always be able to implement the directives of the president particularly in the fields of electricity services, fuel oils and climate change related to the use of biodiesel," he said.
He further provided inputs to make the Upstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Task Force (SKK Migas) more effective.
"The organization of SKK Migas must frequently be improved so that its functions related to cooperation contract contractors (KKKS) will be effective," he said.
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Translator: Zubi Mahrofi/Suharto
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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