"The EU is one of the largest investors in Indonesia and has long become Indonesia's main trade partner. Today we are committed to stepping up our partnership to another level through some technical assistance given by the EU," BKPM chief Mahendra Siregar said in Jakarta on Tuesday in a statement made available to The Jakarta Post.

He said the assistance was aimed at resolving some relevant problems in many aspects, such as how to better promote EU investment to Indonesia.

The European Union Desk that was part of Trade Cooperation Facility (TCF) projects between the country and the EU, would also provide apprenticeships for BKPM officials to help enhance relations among the BKPM and investors from every country across Europe.

"Our strategy is that we can create sustainable economic development in Indonesia by building a knowledge-based economy to help support our transition from a raw material producing industry to high-added value downstream industry," he added.

EU ambassador to Indonesia, Brunei and ASEAN Olof Skoog emphasized the importance of better economic ties between Indonesia and the EU.

He said that trade and investment between the archipelagic nation and countries in Europe had continued to show positive results. However, there were many potential areas that had not been utilized to the maximum.

"A lot of investors have a strong interest to invest in Indonesia. I believe that the European Union Desk will help improve understanding between the two parties on how to increase European investment in Indonesia. As an ambassador, I am proud that I am able to sponsor this initiative," Skoog said. (nfo)

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