During the meeting that took place in Washington, D.C., on Thursday (April 24), Hartarto reaffirmed Jakarta's commitment to addressing the US trade deficit with Indonesia.
"We favor fair and square trade activities. Indonesia will boost its purchase of various essential commodities (from the US), such as oil and gas, as well as agricultural products," the minister noted in a statement cited here on Friday.
The Indonesian government had earlier made a similar pledge during talks with the US Department of Commerce and the Office of the US Trade Representative.
Hartarto also told Bessent that Indonesia remains open to investment and is eager to strengthen strategic cooperation across various sectors, particularly critical minerals, the digital economy, and finance, with the US.
He emphasized that the Indonesian government remains resolute in simplifying domestic regulations that could hinder trade and investment with the US. This includes favorable adjustments to import permits, import quotas, and domestic component-level requirements.
"We expect to complete detailed discussions and technical negotiations within 60 days," he remarked.
Meanwhile, Secretary Bessent expressed appreciation for Indonesia's swift response to the new US tariffs on its products, announced by President Donald Trump on April 2.
He also noted that Indonesia was among the first nations to initiate discussions with the US on the tariffs—talks that have progressed quickly.
Bessent said he viewed this responsiveness as Indonesia’s demonstration of a genuine commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations.
He also highlighted the US interest in expanding its global collaboration with Indonesia, including within the G20 and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), for which Indonesia is currently undergoing the accession process.
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Translator: Bayu S, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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