"We still have problems with our CPO to enter the EU. Croatia, with its modern seaports, is expected to be our entrance," Paulus said after receiving a courtesy visit from a Croatian Parliament delegation here on Monday.
He said he hopes that Croatia, through its seaports, could become Indonesia's door to export its CPO products to central and eastern Europe.
Indonesia and Croatia established diplomatic relations in 1992.
Although it is a small country in Europe, Croatia has three modern ports, making it a strategic partner in the Balkan region, Paulus said.
"There is no reason for the EU to ban us because we have received their recognition on clean energy. Of course, bilateral relations must be profitable. We will see what (commodities) can be exported there," he explained.
He said the meeting also discussed cooperation in the defense and security sectors, especially related to Croatia's interest in exploring more intensive cooperation with Indonesia.
Paulus informed that he and the Croatian delegation also talked about potential disruptions that may occur due to the Russia-Ukraine geopolitical tensions.
According to him, geopolitical conflicts must be resolved because they can affect all sectors, including the economic sector by pushing up prices and living costs.
"We already feel the impact because we import wheat from Russia and Ukraine. One thing that makes us happy is that we are on the same side on how we care about peace," he said.
Indonesia is ready to be a moderator in resolving the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, he added.
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Translator: Melalusa K, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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