Brussels — President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, announced the successful conclusion of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations between Indonesia and the European Union. The agreement is being hailed as a major breakthrough that paves the way for broader access for Indonesian products and commodities into the EU market.

“Today, for me, is a historic day. After ten years of negotiations—sometimes quite difficult—we have reached a breakthrough,” said Prabowo during his meeting with European Council President António Costa in Brussels on Sunday (13 July).

CEPA essentially represents a free trade agreement between Indonesia and the European Union. According to President Prabowo, all previously contested trade items have been addressed and resolved.

“We now have an agreement on the Indonesian-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which is essentially a free trade agreement. And it seems we are very pleased that almost all items have been agreed upon,” he said.

“There are no outstanding issues. I believe all commodities have been discussed and finalized. Fundamentally, we are looking forward to greater European participation in our economy, and we are also ready to engage further with the EU economy,” Prabowo added.

He emphasized the mutually beneficial nature of the Indonesia–EU partnership. While the European Union brings advantages in science, technology, finance, and managerial expertise, Indonesia offers critical resources and strategic agricultural commodities.

“I believe we have a symbiotic relationship. You bring science, technology, finance, decades of management and economic experience, and we provide critical resources, minerals, and agricultural commodities—which I believe will be mutually beneficial if we have this strategic agreement,” he stated.

President Prabowo also expressed his appreciation for the EU’s commitment to peace and global stability, and stressed the importance of deeper cooperation in an increasingly multipolar world.

“We consider Europe to be very important, and we want to see a strong Europe playing a key role in maintaining global peace and stability,” Prabowo remarked.

The CEPA agreement is expected to serve as a new foundation for enhanced economic, trade, and investment cooperation between Indonesia and the European Union. President Prabowo concluded by voicing optimism that both parties are now entering a new, strategic phase of bilateral relations.