"Economic diplomacy has been one of our priorities. We seek to pursue economic interests and encourage international cooperation. Startup Talks is proof of our commitment to solidifying Indonesia-Europe relations," the ministry's Economic Diplomacy Advisor, Dindin Wahyudin, said at the event in Jakarta.
He noted that startup companies had arrived as agents of change that are transforming industries amid digital economic growth, pushing conventional boundaries away, and creating a new economic landscape.
"Indonesia's startup ecosystem has been witnessing significant progress since it first appeared in 2010. Moreover, the ecosystem's landscape has become a rapidly-growing innovation center," he highlighted.
Wahyudin added that Indonesian startups have been in the front line in technological development while providing innovative services and products needed by the people.
"Startups have become the spearheads of technological development by offering innovative products and services that can meet the people's needs," he remarked.
He also drew attention to the digital economy, saying its value in Southeast Asia is projected to reach US$330 billion by 2025 and US$1 trillion by 2030.
As for Indonesia, he said, the value of the country's digital economy is expected to hit US$150 billion by next year.
The former Indonesian ambassador to Senegal expressed his hope that the Startup Talks event would facilitate Indonesia and European countries to collaborate to explore the potential of the digital economy.
The Indonesian and European governments could exchange their insights on regulations to optimize the digital economy and strengthen their partnerships, he added.
Wahyudin expressed belief that such a collaboration would help Indonesia to promote its products and boost its exports.
"By promoting its products at the international level, Indonesia will be able to boost its exports and further improve its reputation in the eyes of the world," he said.
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Translator: Kuntum K, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Tia Mutiasari
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