Kadin Indonesia Launches Global Engagement Office in Paris to Strengthen Economic Diplomacy
Main Takeaways
|
PARIS, Investortrust.id — Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kadin Indonesia, has officially launched its Global Engagement Office (Kadin GEO) in Paris, marking a major milestone in the country’s push for stronger international business diplomacy.
The launch took place on Monday, July 14, coinciding with France’s Bastille Day celebrations, and was attended by Kadin Chairman Anindya Novyan Bakrie and several international business leaders. The initiative aims to enhance Indonesia’s presence on the global economic stage by creating a dedicated platform to foster trade and investment partnerships abroad.
“Kadin GEO represents a strategic effort to build stronger alignment with partner countries such as France,” Anindya said during the launch event. “With the initial signing of the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) now behind us, we need a reliable navigator within the EU — and that’s where France’s role becomes vital.”
Strengthening Ties with France and Beyond
Kadin GEO will be led by Bernardino Moningka Vega, commonly known as Dino, who also serves as Kadin’s Vice Chairman for International Relations. The office is designed to act as the frontline of Indonesia’s economic diplomacy, connecting local businesses with international ecosystems and promoting Indonesian interests at global forums such as ASEAN, APEC, OECD, BRICS, COP, and the G20.
“We want to build a consistent narrative about Indonesia across bilateral and multilateral forums,” Anindya added.
Danone CEO Antoine de Saint Affrique welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the longstanding relationship between the French multinational and Indonesia through brands like Aqua and SGM. “Today symbolizes a great friendship between two major nations,” he said. “With more than 12,000 employees and 24 factories in Indonesia, Danone feels very much part of the Indonesian family.”
Affrique underscored the importance of long-term, values-driven partnerships to drive sustainable growth for both countries.
MEDEF and Indonesian Optimism
Philippe Gautier, Director General of the Movement des Entreprises de France International (MEDEF), also voiced strong support. Representing over 200,000 French companies, MEDEF sees Indonesia as a strategic Asian partner and pledged to work towards raising Indonesia’s profile in the French business community.
“There is still untapped economic potential,” Gautier said. “This momentum, especially following the EU-CEPA framework, could help bring that to life—not just with France, but with Europe as a whole.”
A Vision for Global Transformation
James Tjahaja Riady, Kadin’s Vice Chairman for International Affairs, concluded the event by reflecting on Indonesia’s new direction under President Prabowo Subianto. He praised the administration’s structured and ambitious plans for national development, citing the presence of key advisors like Professor Sumitro and Hashim Djojohadikusumo.
“This is the first time we’ve seen a president come in with a written master plan and a strong team,” said Riady. “There’s a serious push for 8% growth and massive transformations in technology, finance, and social development.”
He also encouraged more French investment in Indonesia. “Danone already sees Indonesia as its fourth-largest market. Why not the third or even second?” he quipped, drawing laughter from the audience.