Dubai, February 13, 2025 – The Europe Today: Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto emphasized Indonesia’s strong commitment to fostering international collaboration for sustainable and robust economic growth during his address at the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on February 12.
“Indonesia prioritizes efforts to establish quality partnerships with all parties in a bid to realize solid economic growth,” Hartarto remarked, as quoted in a statement from his ministry on Thursday.
Highlighting Indonesia’s economic potential, Hartarto pointed to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) of USD 1.4 trillion and a population of 280 million as valuable assets for pursuing mutually beneficial international cooperation. He cited the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) as key platforms for engagement.
Hartarto noted that Indonesia recognizes these multinational platforms as emerging economic blocs, aligning with the panel discussion’s theme, “The Emergence of Multiple Economic Blocs.” He explained that the formation of such blocs is a direct consequence of escalating global tensions affecting trade, investment, and geopolitical stability.
Focusing on ASEAN, Hartarto underscored its role as a buffer protecting member states from the economic impact of the U.S.-China trade war. Additionally, he expressed optimism regarding ongoing discussions on a free trade agreement between Indonesia and the GCC.
The minister highlighted Indonesia’s interest in collaborating with Gulf states in key sectors such as energy, finance, and infrastructure.
“Indonesia’s cooperation with Gulf countries is expected to strengthen its position in global trade, infrastructure financing, and technology collaboration. These factors are crucial for achieving Indonesia’s eight percent economic growth target,” he stated.
Hartarto made these remarks in the presence of UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla Bin Touq, Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek, and Saudi Arabian Economy and Planning Minister Faisal Alibrahim.
