VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

VOInews, Rio de Janeiro: The Indonesia-Brazil Business Forum at Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro, marked a significant milestone with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between business players from both countries. The cooperation, valued at USD 2.8 billion, spans across critical sectors such as finance, digital technology, mining, energy, livestock, and aerospace.  

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, who witnessed the signing, emphasized the importance of the partnership. “This collaboration reflects the growing trust and synergy between Indonesian and Brazilian businesses, paving the way for robust economic ties,” he stated.  

Prabowo: Shared Vision for Strategic Development

President Joko Widodo, attending the event, underscored Indonesia's commitment to fostering closer economic cooperation with Brazil. He highlighted the shared attributes of both nations, including large populations, abundant natural resources, and a dynamic culture.  

“Brazil’s advancements in industrial development serve as an inspiration for Indonesia. We aim to catch up and leverage our strengths to support sustainable growth,” President Prabowo remarked.  

He called for intensified cooperation in key sectors such as energy, food security, industrial development, and maritime affairs. In the energy sector, the focus is on renewable energy initiatives, particularly biofuels and ethanol. Meanwhile, food security efforts include increasing protein consumption through programs like *Program Makan Bergizi Gratis* (Free Nutritious Meal Program).  

Strengthening Fisheries and Aerospace Industry

As one of the top three countries with the largest fishery reserves globally, Indonesia still faces a significant shortage of around 40,000 large-capacity fishing vessels. To address this gap, President Prabowo proposed collaboration between PT Dirgantara Indonesia and Brazil’s Embraer to bolster the aerospace and maritime industries.  

“This partnership can enhance our capabilities in fisheries and support industrial growth that benefits both nations,” he added.  

Brazil: A Strategic Economic Partner

Brazil remains a key economic partner for Indonesia. In 2023, bilateral trade between the two nations reached USD 6 billion, with key commodities including palm oil, rubber, agricultural products, and meat.  

Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani Indrawati highlighted the significance of these ties. “Brazil and Indonesia’s complementary strengths create vast opportunities for mutual benefit, especially in addressing global challenges like food security and renewable energy,” she explained.  

High-Level Participation

The forum brought together prominent Indonesian officials, including Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono, and Special Envoy for Climate and Energy Hashim Djojohadikusumo. Other attendees included Deputy Minister of Finance Thomas Djiwandono, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, Indonesian Ambassador to Brazil Edi Yusup, and KADIN Chairperson Anindya Novyan Bakrie.  

Through this landmark forum, Indonesia and Brazil reaffirmed their commitment to advancing economic cooperation across strategic sectors, positioning both nations as influential players in the global economy.  

Source: ekon.go.id