Press Statement of the President of the Republic of Indonesia on the Results of Presidential Working Visit to European Union at the Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, Jakarta on 23 April 2016
Unofficial English Translation
Bismillahirrahmanirrahim,
Assalamualaikum warrahmatullahi wabarakaatuh,
For the last five days, the entourage and I have conducted a working visit to four countries in the European Union; Germany, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
There are two things I have learned from the visit. Firstly, the European Union and its businesspeople have trust in Indonesias economy. Indonesias economic deregulation policies have received positive response. Secondly, great appreciation and high expectation expressed with regard to Indonesias role in keeping peace through developing moderate, democratic, and tolerant Islam. Currently, the values of Islam which promote peace, democracy, and tolerance have become the assets for Indonesian diplomacy in the international community.
Furthermore, commitments and priorities for cooperation between the four European countries have been agreed. First, with German counterpart, we only focus on one sector, namely vocational school, vocational training in order to create skilled and competitive labors in accordance with market needs.
Second, with the United Kingdom counterpart, we also focus on cooperation in creative economy industry which will be followed up by Creative Economy Agency. I was glad to see that five young Indonesian designers have their products displayed in a large department store in London.
Third, the fact that we have completed CEPA scoping paper at a rapid pace is highly appreciated by Belgium or the European Union counterparts, and we just need to carry out the negotiation process.
Fourth, with the Netherlands counterpart, we also concentrated on one sector related to maritime and water management. Later in November, Dutch Prime Minister and Dutch business delegates are scheduled to visit Indonesia.
I think that is all I can say in this fine opportunity. I have noticed that the total value of business to business deal during the visit have reached US$ 20.5 billion.
Thank you.
Assalamualaikum warrahmatullahi wabarakaatuh.(HumasSetkab) (RAS/AW/YM/Naster)