The ICA-CEPA Agreement Called Airlangga Has Been Substantiated

The signing of the Joint Ministerial Statement, which marks the end of ICA-CEPA negotiations, is scheduled to take place on December 2, 2024, during the visit of Canadian Trade Minister Ms. Mary Ng to Jakarta.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto conveyed that negotiations for the Indonesia-Canada comprehensive economic partnership agreement (Indonesia Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership/ICA-CEPA) have been completed in substance.

"The ICA-CEPA negotiations have been substantially completed (substantially conserved)," said Airlangga in his statement in Jakarta, Sunday, November 17.

However, there are still some parts that still need to finalize the agreement with the two countries.

Airlangga also accompanied Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Bilateral Meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the sidelines of a series of events at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (KTT APEC) in Lima, Peru.

The meeting discussed various potential enhancements in Indonesia - Canada cooperation. President Prabowo opened the meeting by expressing his appreciation for the significant progress of the ICA-CEPA negotiations which marked Indonesia's first CEPA in North America.

"This agreement will open up opportunities to increase trade in the agricultural, manufacturing and supply sectors," explained President Prabowo.

On the occasion of the bilateral meeting, Indonesia pushed for an increase in partnership with Canada, especially in four sectors.

First, critical minerals (critical minerals) to optimize investment in the downstream nickel industry for electric vehicles in Indonesia. This partnership will increase the creation of value and employment and contribute to achieving the goal of zero carbon emissions.

Second, food resilience and self-sufficiency to ensure nutritious food, as well as reduce stunting in Indonesia. The President offers Canada for cooperation in the agricultural sector and acculturing through the integration of technology and agricultural innovation.

Third, in the energy security sector, Indonesia offers cooperation in the research and development sector to increase innovation capacity for the future of cleaner and more resilient energy, to support Indonesia's commitment to achieve zero emissions by 2060, with an investment value of 1 trillion US dollars.

Fourth, the defense in the midst of increasing regional tensions, Indonesia hopes that defense and security cooperation with Canada can be improved for countering terrorism, logistical support, and developing the defense industry of the two countries.

On the occasion, the President of the Republic of Indonesia also expected Canadian support for the Palestinian issue, especially to continue financial support for Palestine and recognize the Palestinian state to advance two-state solutions and comprehensive peace.