Investment Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has suggested that European companies and investors are still on the fence in regard to investing in Indonesia, as many are wary of any political turbulence or instability that might arise following President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo’s departure from office in 2024.

“[Foreign investors] do trust Indonesia, but businessmen in Europe, or just about anywhere, are all asking who will be the next [person] to lead Indonesia and whether or not they will have the same commitment as Jokowi or not,” Bahlil said in a video statement on Sunday, as quoted by the Presidential Secretariat.

To this end, he urged Indonesians to work together and convince foreign investors that the country remains united, despite the political tension and differences that might arise before and after the 2024 elections.

“Although I can't give false hopes to the investors, one thing I'm sure of is that until now Jokowi has been very consistent [in his stance] of welcoming investors from all countries, particularly those [looking to invest] in downstream industries,” he added.

Bahlil’s statement came on the sidelines of his visit to Germany, where he, along with Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi and Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto, accompanied the President to the Hannover Messe industrial fair.

In his speech to open the Hannover Messe, Jokowi explained that Indonesia was not "closing its borders" and was open to investment and partnerships to build downstream industries in the country. He also restated his commitment to sustainability.

Read also: Govt reveals big deals at Hannover Messe

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