Amid efforts to bolster economic collaboration with various nations and stimulate exports to maintain a national trade surplus, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto embarked on a diplomatic mission, engaging in bilateral discussions and meetings in Moscow, Russia, from June 10-12, 2024. During his visit, Airlangga convened with multiple ministers and CEOs of prominent Russian corporations. Notably, he was set to receive the Medal for Contribution to International Cooperation from the Russian government and commemorate Russia's National Day on June 12.
In the realm of economic diplomacy, Airlangga commenced his visit with a strategic meeting with Andrey Slepnev, the Minister of Trade of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC). Discussions revolved around accelerating negotiations for the Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (Indonesia-EAEU FTA) and addressing trade barriers. Airlangga emphasized Indonesia's aspiration for swift completion of the FTA negotiations in 2024, aiming to facilitate business expansion into Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Additionally, he underscored Indonesia's push to augment palm oil exports to EAEU member countries, highlighting its compliance with health and sustainability standards. Minister Slepnev echoed the urgency for concluding negotiations, targeting a resolution by July 2024 in Indonesia, and affirmed the EU's support for agricultural cooperation, assuring no discriminatory policies towards Indonesian palm oil. Throughout the visit, Airlangga advocated for enhanced economic ties, renewable energy collaboration, and direct flight routes to bolster bilateral relations, tourism, and logistical facilitation, signaling Indonesia's commitment to fostering robust international partnerships in the evolving global economic landscape.
