Jakarta, 6 September 2023 (TDI): On September 5, 2023, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau held a meeting with the Indonesian President Joko Widodo during the 43rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Prime Minister Trudeau commended President Widodo for his exceptional ASEAN chairmanship. He also conveyed gratitude for President Widodo’s leadership in endorsing the Canada-ASEAN Strategic Partnership which will be launched on September 6, 2023.
Moroever, both leaders engaged in a discussion about expanding bilateral ties between both countries, specifically focusing on trade and investment.
Furthermore, both Prime Minister Trudeau and President Widodo proclaimed their support for the Canada-Indonesia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to generate employment opportunities for the middle class and foster business growth.
Similarly, both leaders agreed to finalize this agreement by the end of the year 2024.
Additionally, both leaders expressed their satisfaction with the increasing ties between the two countries, particularly in areas like agri-food and fertilizer.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Widodo expressed delight at strengthening connections between Canadian and Indonesian enterprises, particularly in industries like agri-food and fertilizer.
Also Read: Canada boosts economic ties with ASEAN and Indonesia
Prime Minister Trudeau during his meeting with President Widodo revealed his intentions to form a Team Canada Trade Mission to Indonesia in 2024. Prime Minister Trudeau also appreciated the recent progress in regaining access to the Indonesian market for Canadian halal products.
Moreover, Prime Minister Trudeau also emphasized the progress made in the implementation of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, which aims to assist a free and open Indo-Pacific region. He also confirmed that Export Development Canada will establish an office in Jakarta.
Collaboration on Climate Action
Prime Minister Trudeau applauded President Widodo’s efforts regarding carbon pricing aimed at mitigating climate change impacts.
Additionally, both leaders explored the possibilities for joint efforts in climate action and assessed advancements in the Just Energy Transition Partnership.
Also Read: Canada collaborates with Singapore, Indonesia to strengthen Indo-Pacific Strategy
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Widodo also highlighted the significance of accelerating the transition from coal to cleaner energy as a vital step against climate change.
Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau condemned the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, calling it an unlawful war inflicted on Ukraine. Both leaders showed concerns over the significant repercussions the Russia-Ukraine conflict is causing in terms of regional and global food security.
Lastly, both leaders conveyed their positive outlook regarding the ongoing expansion and robust partnership between Canada and Indonesia, pledging to maintain close communication.
