Dear Mr. President,

It is a great pleasure to welcome you here in the Berlaymont in Brussels. This marks our first meeting and hopefully the first of many, as Europe and Indonesia share much in common. Both are vibrant democracies, united in diversity. We are committed to a clean energy transition that benefits everyone, and I am pleased that our Just Energy Transition Partnership is successful.

Dear Mr. President,

We face turbulent times. Economic uncertainty and geopolitical challenges necessitate closer partnerships. Today, we are advancing our collaboration in three key areas.

First: Trade. I am happy to announce that we have reached a political agreement on an ambitious free trade agreement, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). After ten years of negotiations, we have achieved a breakthrough. Thank you for your leadership, Mr. President. Together, we send a strong signal about the importance of trustworthy, long-term partnerships built on reciprocity, transparency, and shared values. This agreement opens new markets and creates opportunities in key industries like agriculture, automotive, and services, benefiting both our populations. Indonesia, with a GDP of EUR 1.2 trillion and over 287 million people, is a major economy and a vital supplier for the green transition. This agreement arrives at the right moment to capitalize on our trade potential.

Second, on geopolitics and security: In facing global challenges, it is crucial to strengthen our ties. Europe and Indonesia are committed to peace and a rules-based international order. Today, we discussed elevating our relationship to a Strategic Partnership, ensuring long-term commitment based on trust and mutual benefit, complementing our EU-ASEAN relations.

Lastly, regarding our people: they should be the primary beneficiaries of our strengthened ties. I am pleased to announce that the European Commission has adopted a decision on the visa cascade, allowing Indonesian nationals who visit the EU for a second time to apply for multi-entry Schengen visas, facilitating visits, investments, and connections. We are building a bridge between our societies.

Mr. President,

Thank you for your visit. Our message today is powerful and clear. While some may turn inward during hard times, Europe and Indonesia choose a path of openness, partnership, and shared opportunities. I look forward to concluding our free trade agreement swiftly.

You are always welcome here, and you can count on Europe.