RI Strengthens Relations With Australia On Electric Vehicles And Food Safety

Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto (Photo: dock. Antara)

JAKARTA - The Indonesian government expects Australian support in maintaining price stability and food security, especially the certainty of the supply of wheat and beef.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto held several bilateral meetings with State Ministers IPEF members, one of whom met with Australian Senator Mr. Don Farrell in San Francisco on Tuesday, November 14.

During the meeting, Senator Don Farrell observed the development of Indonesia-Australia CEPA which is expected to focus on cooperation in developing electric vehicles (EVs), wheat and beef trading.

"We have visited one of Indonesia's largest wheat flour industries in Makassar, most of which come from Australia. This shows the high demand for wheat in Indonesia," he said, in a written statement, Wednesday, November 16.

Airlangga welcomed Senator Don Farrell's statement, certainty in the supply of wheat and beef. Because Indonesia is also facing the threat of El Nino and can affect national food security, this will certainly lead to inflation for food prices.

"However, with the close trade cooperation between Indonesia and Australia, it will be able to minimize this risk," he said

As the country with the world's largest critical mineral reserves, Airlangga and Senator Don Farrell also have the same view that critical minerals are of common interest, and this discussion is an important element for the energy transition and electric vehicle (EV), in both countries.

Airlangga welcomed Australia's concern considering this is in line with the focus of the Indonesian Government to develop EVs.

In addition, the two of them also discussed the progress of the development of the State Capital (IKN). Airlangga explained that currently the development of IKN has reached more than 30 percent, especially in the core region of government.

"We are targeting the celebration of the 79th Indonesian Independence Day in 2024 to be held at IKN. To support the development of green, inclusive, intelligent, and resilient cities, we are developing a renewable energy source in North Kalimantan, especially green hydrogen, with a capacity of 10 GW," he explained.

In closing the discussion, Senator Don Farrell expressed Australia's support for Indonesia's access to OECD, as well as readiness to actively support through the Prospera Program.