The ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) have strengthened cooperation with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and the United Kingdom. Djatmiko Bris Witjaksono, the Director General of International Trade Negotiations at the Indonesian Ministry of Trade, represented Indonesia's Minister of Trade in leading the Indonesian delegation during the ASEAN Economic Ministers' meetings. A significant outcome of these meetings was the Troika Open-Ended Dialogue with the Swiss Minister of Trade, which culminated in the ratification of the ASEAN-EFTA Cooperation Declaration. Djatmiko highlighted that finalizing this declaration is a crucial step towards enhancing comprehensive cooperation between ASEAN and EFTA member countries, focusing on various priority sectors such as competition policy, public procurement, innovation and technology, sustainable trade, human resources, and consumer protection.
Additionally, a consultation meeting between ASEAN Economic Ministers and the UK was held, where both parties committed to further enhancing economic cooperation and integration, particularly in digital transformation and sustainability. This collaboration will be framed within the ASEAN-UK Economic Integration Programme (EIP). Djatmiko noted that launching the ASEAN-UK EIP would support ASEAN's economic integration agenda, strengthen trade and investment ties between ASEAN and the UK, and help address regional and global economic challenges while bolstering supply chain resilience. Djatmiko also participated in consultations with other ASEAN dialogue partners, including meetings with the EU Trade Commissioner and Russian representatives, where ministers exchanged views on enhancing trade cooperation and supply chains. These bilateral meetings occurred from September 18 to 20, 2024, during which partner countries expressed their commitment to strengthening economic relations with Indonesia.
