For over six decades, Indonesia and Japan have worked together to drive progress and foster innovation. A significant milestone in this collaboration came in 2008 with the implementation of the Indonesia-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (IJEPA), which boosted trade and investment between the two nations. In 2023, this relationship was further strengthened through the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, enhancing economic ties with improved investment frameworks and new collaborative programs.
In an engaging conversation with Bridges Magazine, H.E. Heri Akhmadi, Indonesian Ambassador to Japan, outlined how this relationship has evolved beyond traditional resource trade into more sophisticated collaborations. A seasoned politician and diplomat, Ambassador Akhmadi brings decades of experience in governance, international relations, and economic cooperation. During the interview, he discussed how Indonesia and Japan are working together to address key global challenges, such as food security, clean energy infrastructure development, and digital innovation—priorities that will be prominently featured at Indonesia’s pavilion during Expo 2025 Osaka. The pavilion will serve as a platform to showcase Indonesia’s emerging leadership in sustainable development across Southeast Asia, underscoring the nation’s growing role in shaping the region’s future.
Bridges: Indonesia and Japan recently elevated their diplomatic ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. What does this mean for the relationship moving forward?
Heri Akhmadi: Indonesia and Japan have shared strong diplomatic and economic ties for decades. In 2023, we elevated our relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, reinforcing our deep, multifaceted relationship. This upgrade goes beyond trade and investment—it now includes defense cooperation, technology transfer, and education. Japan’s support for Indonesia’s carbon market and energy transition is an essential step toward achieving a zero-emission future.
Indonesia and Japan have shared strong diplomatic and economic ties for decades.
Heri Akhmadi, Indonesian Ambassador to Japan
The Indonesia-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (IJEPA) has been in effect for over a decade. What are some of its most significant achievements?
After six years of negotiations, we successfully renewed the IJEPA protocols last year, expanding cooperation in key areas. One of the most important developments was our agreement on carbon credit trading, strengthening Indonesia’s green economy and sustainable development initiatives. This mutual recognition agreement on carbon trading will not only benefit Indonesia and Japan but also serve as a model for ASEAN countries.
Sustainability is a major focus for both countries. How do you see Indonesia and Japan working together in this area?
Japan has long been a leader in green technology and renewable energy, and Indonesia is actively transitioning toward sustainability. Our partnership extends to energy transition, circular economy, and emissions reduction. With this initiative, we aim for better coordination in energy transition, not just between Indonesia and Japan, but across ASEAN.
Indonesia will have a strong presence at Expo 2025 Osaka. What can we expect from Indonesia’s participation?
Indonesia sees Expo 2025 Osaka as a strategic platform to showcase its leadership in sustainability, connectivity, and digital transformation. We officially broke ground on the Indonesian pavilion in February 2024, and we have allocated significant resources to make it a key highlight. We expect the pavilion to showcase Indonesia’s potential in renewable energy, smart cities, and sustainable development. Additionally, we plan to highlight Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and innovation-driven economy to attract investment and diplomatic engagement.
With deepening economic, environmental, and technological cooperation, Indonesia and Japan are laying the foundation for a stronger, more sustainable partnership.
Looking ahead, what are the most promising areas for future collaboration between Indonesia and Japan?
Moving forward, our cooperation will focus on food security, energy, and water management. Food security is a top priority for Indonesia’s new government. We are looking at sustainable food production models and leveraging Japan’s agricultural expertise. Additionally, Japan’s advanced but adaptable technology can play a crucial role in modernizing Indonesia’s agriculture and rural industries.
With deepening economic, environmental, and technological cooperation, Indonesia and Japan are laying the foundation for a stronger, more sustainable partnership. As the two nations work toward shared global challenges, their mutual strengths and complementary industries will ensure continued growth and innovation.
