‘Our message is clear. We are open for business with Indonesia’

Northern Territory Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill heads overseas today on a key trade mission. Find out where.

Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill flies to Indonesia today Fia Walsh.

Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill flies to Indonesia today to reinforce the Northern Territory’s intention to forge a stronger partnership with its largest neighbour.

Minister Cahill will lead a delegation that will meet with Indonesian businesses and government officials.

She will attend the Indonesian Economic Summit to progress investment opportunities in manufacturing, energy and critical minerals.

Minister Cahill said the delegation will advance the Northern Territory’s strategic role as Australia’s gateway to Asia and remains a committed partner of Indonesia.

“Indonesia is one of Australia’s closest neighbours and is an important economic and strategic partner for business,” Ms Cahill said.

“We intend to further strengthen ties and promote trade opportunities

“Progression of the Northern Territory-Indonesia Critical Minerals memorandum of understanding demonstrates our commitment to deepen trade and investment ties and explore new opportunities together.”

Formalised at the Australian Indonesian Business Council late last year, the agreement is the first of its kind between any Australian jurisdiction and Indonesia.

The five-year agreement is designed to establish a collaborative framework that promotes sustainable development and economic growth, fostering mutual benefits for both the Northern Territory and Indonesia.

Minister Cahill said the re-establishment by the CLP government of a dedicated portfolio of Asian Relations is a clear demonstration of the importance of the Territory’s northern neighbours to growing the NT economy.

‘When the previous Labor Government dropped Asian Relations from its business portfolio it essentially said we had no interest in doing business with our closest neighbour, Indonesia.

This was unforgivable,” Ms Cahill said.

“Successive CLP Governments have always considered Indonesia a close friend and a critical trading partner and our CLP Government is absolutely committed to rebuilding our relationship with Indonesia.

“Our message is clear.

We are open for business with Indonesia and are working hard to restore the Territory to its rightful place as the gateway to doing business in Asia for Australia.

“The Northern Territory is ready to work with Indonesia to unlock investment in critical minerals, processing facilities and downstream industries.”