During a meeting in Paris on Wednesday (March 5), Hartarto sought support from France to help Indonesia achieve its targeted economic growth rate of 8 percent in stages and its aspiration to become a developed nation with a higher per capita income.
The Indonesian minister stated that substantial French investment in Indonesia was initiated by the Eramet Group, which is currently expanding its business in the nickel-based electric vehicle (EV) battery value chain by leveraging resources in Weda Bay, Central Halmahera, North Maluku.
The collaboration between the Eramet Group and a Chinese company encompasses the processing and downstreaming of strategic minerals to foster a more sustainable EV ecosystem.
Minister Airlangga emphasized that Indonesia's purchase of military equipment from France, valued at 11 billion euros, should be complemented by expanded French trade with Indonesia in other sectors.
In response, Minister Lombard highlighted several potential cooperation projects, including HDF Energy's hydrogen project in Sumba in collaboration with PT PLN, satellite industry collaborations through Thales, and the construction of railways and their tracks where France will prepare the financing scheme.
Additionally, he noted that France will contribute to developing LRT infrastructure in Bandung, West Java.
During the meeting, Airlangga expressed his appreciation to the French government for supporting the delay in implementing the European Union regulation on deforestation-free products (EUDR) until the end of 2025.
"The government has always been proactive in conducting bilateral dialogues related to the implementation of the EUDR with the European Union. The dialogue can be a space for Indonesia to align (its) national interests with those of the European Union," he stated.
He further underscored the significance of strengthening the palm oil (CPO) industry as one of the leading sectors contributing to Indonesia’s economy.
Consequently, Airlangga invited France to support Indonesia's commitment to adhering to globally recognized sustainability standards, especially in the CPO industry.
Before concluding the meeting, both ministers agreed to enhance bilateral relations between Indonesia and France to foster greater benefits for the economic growth of both countries.
"This bilateral meeting confirms the commitment of both countries to strengthening economic partnerships. The diplomatic relations between Indonesia and France, which have reached 75 years this year, are expected to be an opportunity to launch new cooperation programs between the two countries,” Airlangga noted.
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Translator: Bayu Saputra, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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