Indonesia-Turkiye CEPA
Indonesia and Turkiye have agreed to complete the Indonesia-Turkiye CEPA and expand market access for their products. President Prabowo Subianto and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced this after a bilateral meeting at the Bogor Presidential Palace on Wednesday.
The two leaders emphasized that this partnership aims to boost trade while supporting global stability. “We are committed to increasing trade with mutual benefit for both countries, also accelerating the finalization of the CEPA agreement,” Prabowo stated.
Erdogan’s visit marked a step toward stronger ties between the two nations. Discussions also covered economic cooperation, defense, and infrastructure.
Trade and Investment Take Center Stage
CEPA has been under discussion for years. Both governments now want to finalize the agreement and reduce trade barriers. Expanding market access is a key part of the plan. This move could create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
Indonesia and Turkiye already trade in various sectors. However, officials believe more can be done to increase exports and investment. Prabowo stressed that their economic partnership should serve the interests of both nations.
The leaders also discussed potential collaborations beyond trade. This includes infrastructure development and energy projects. Defense industry cooperation was another topic on the agenda. Turkiye is known for its advanced military technology, and Indonesia is looking to modernize its defense sector.
High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council Meeting
Alongside the bilateral talks, the leaders held the first High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) meeting. Prabowo highlighted the importance of this forum, noting that Indonesia does not have many regular bilateral mechanisms at the head-of-state level.
The meeting served as a platform to explore long-term partnerships. Officials from both governments joined the discussions, including Foreign Minister Sugiono and State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi. Turkish First Lady Emine Erdogan also attended.
Warm Welcome Despite Heavy Rain
Erdogan arrived in Jakarta on Tuesday evening. Prabowo personally welcomed him at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base. Rain poured heavily as the Turkish delegation stepped off the plane. Despite the weather, the welcome ceremony continued as planned.
Both leaders shook hands and shared umbrellas as they walked past the honor guards. Prabowo then escorted Erdogan and the First Lady to their official vehicle. The moment reflected the strong relationship between the two leaders.
On Wednesday, a formal ceremony took place at Bogor Presidential Palace before their bilateral meeting. Discussions lasted for several hours, covering various areas of cooperation.
Strengthening Diplomatic Relations
Turkiye and Indonesia have shared diplomatic ties for 75 years. Both nations have worked together on trade, education, and disaster relief. The leaders see this visit as a chance to deepen their relationship.
Officials have high expectations for CEPA. If finalized, the agreement could boost trade volumes and strengthen economic ties. The deal may also encourage investment from both sides.
Aside from economic matters, both countries see value in working together on global issues. Stability, security, and sustainable development were among the topics discussed.
Looking Ahead
Erdogan’s visit ended with a luncheon at the Bogor Presidential Palace. Moving forward, officials from both governments will work on finalizing CEPA and other agreements.
Prabowo expressed optimism about the partnership. Both leaders aim to turn their discussions into concrete actions. The next step is ensuring that businesses and industries benefit from the planned agreements.
Indonesia and Turkiye will continue working on strategic projects. If CEPA is completed, trade between the two countries could grow further. The visit has set the stage for stronger ties in the years ahead.
