Indonesia and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) could complete a free trade agreement within the next two years, according to several Russian experts who remain optimistic about the negotiations. Lyudmila Vorobieva, the Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, stated that a free trade agreement could ultimately bolster bilateral trade between Indonesia and Russia, as well as intensify trade between Indonesia and other EAEU member nations. Vorobieva indicated that official discussions about the possibility of a free trade agreement began last year and have continued since. The two nations have already conducted the first round of negotiations in Jakarta.
Vorobieva praised the potential free trade agreement between Indonesia and the EAEU as a major accomplishment, indicating that it would enhance trade flows between the two regions and stimulate economic activity, much more than the previous provisions allowed. The EAEU was founded in 2015 and is comprised of several member countries including Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. As such, the EAEU Day will be celebrated for the first time on May 29, 2023. The day will be a momentous occasion for Russia and all the member countries since it is a moment to honor the founding of the EAEU, and to express their unity toward building a more prosperous future.
Additionally, Ambassador Lyudmila has talked about several other international forums that will be held in the near future including the Eurasian Economic Forum scheduled to be held in Moscow at the end of May. The forum aims to bring together delegates from different regions of Indonesia to participate in the event. Russia will also be hosting the 26th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum under the aegis of the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin. The ambassador expressed optimism that Indonesian representatives will participate in the event.
Apart from the business and economic activities, Vorobieva also spoke about the recent commemoration of the 78th Anniversary of Victory in World War Two, also known as the Great Patriotic War. She highlighted that every year, Russia holds a military parade in Moscow to celebrate the victory and honor the ancestors who fought bravely in the war. During the event, the “Immortal Regiment” was displayed, wherein people exhibited photographs of their parents and grandparents who fought in the war while walking along the streets of different cities. The aim of this activity is to demonstrate solidarity and pay respects to the people who died during the war.
Overall, the potential agreement between Indonesia and the EAEU is poised to be fruitful for both parties, boosting economic growth and creating investment opportunities. Bilateral trade between the two parties looks promising, and the impending agreement will assist in expanding these partnerships further. The forums and international events discussed are also instrumental in promoting strong partnerships and collaborations between the two regions.
