Brussels, July 14, 2025 — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her appreciation for Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership in bringing to a close the long-delayed negotiations on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Indonesia and the European Union.

Speaking at a joint press conference following their bilateral meeting in Brussels on Sunday (July 13), von der Leyen praised Prabowo’s decisive role in advancing a deal that had remained in limbo for over a decade.

“I am pleased to announce that we have just reached a political agreement on an ambitious free trade agreement — the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). After 10 years of negotiations, we have achieved a major breakthrough. Mr. President, I thank you for your leadership,” von der Leyen said.

She added that the conclusion of CEPA sends a powerful signal of both parties’ commitment to forging a long-term relationship grounded in mutual trust and shared values.

“Together, we are sending a strong message about the importance of a long-term and predictable partnership — one built on trust, mutual respect, transparency, and common values.”

President Prabowo welcomed the recognition and underscored that the CEPA reflects a spirit of mutual benefit between Indonesia and the EU.

“We have made significant progress and agreed to accommodate each other’s economic interests. We discovered that these interests are in fact complementary and mutually advantageous.”

He expressed satisfaction with the success of both negotiating teams in resolving all major outstanding issues that had previously hampered progress.

“I am also very pleased to see that ministers and commissioners on both sides have achieved what I would call a strategic breakthrough. At this moment, there are no longer any major issues of difference between the European Union and Indonesia — and that is quite remarkable.”

Concluding his remarks, President Prabowo conveyed his hope that the implementation phase of the agreement would be formally signed in Brussels, as a symbol of the strength of this partnership.

“I sincerely hope that, as we begin to implement this agreement, we will be able to sign the implementation deal here in Brussels, once again. That would give me the opportunity to return to Brussels!” he said with a smile.