Tokyo, March 31 (AseanAll) — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, on March 31, 2026, expressed their strong commitment to deepening bilateral relations between Indonesia and Japan in a joint press statement following a bilateral meeting held at Akasaka Palace, in Tokyo.
In his remarks, Prabowo emphasized that discussions covered various strategic sectors, ranging from the economy and energy to security. The Head of State noted that all bilateral cooperation was progressing in an increasingly positive direction for the future of the partnership between the two countries.
“We, Indonesia, will work hard to expedite the ratification and implementation of the Indonesia-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (IJEPA) protocol amendment. I hope we can finalize this quickly,” Prabowo said.
Furthermore, Prabowo also opened broad opportunities for Japan’s participation in the economic development of Indonesia, including in the development of critical and rare earth minerals, and industrialization through downstreaming programs. Indonesia also encouraged cooperation in the development of renewable and nuclear energy as part of the future energy transition.
“We continue to invite and welcome Japan’s participation in the Indonesian economy, including partnerships in the critical and rare earth minerals sectors. We also encourage Japan to take part in Indonesia’s industrialization through downstreaming programs,” the Head of State added.
Regarding regional cooperation, Prabowo mentioned the importance of strengthening the Asia Zero Emission Community initiative by involving Japanese companies active in Indonesia.
“We will also promote the Asia Zero Emission Community, involving Japanese companies in Indonesia. We will accelerate and support the debottlenecking of existing projects, such as Legok Nangka and Sarulla projects,” Prabowo added.
Additionally, the Head of State welcomed investment by Japanese firm Inpex Corporation in the gas project in the Masela Block. Prabowo expressed hope that the long-delayed project will soon move forward.
“In addition to the sectors mentioned, we also invite and welcome Japan’s participation in education, tourism, and people-to-people programs,” said Prabowo.
This meeting reflected a strong commitment by Indonesia and Japan, not only to strengthen their partnership but also develop a future-oriented strategy focused on sustainable growth, industrial transformation, and regional stability.
With clearer direction and accelerated progress, Indonesia-Japan relations are now entering a new phase that is deeper, more concrete, and increasingly strategic for the future of the Indo-Pacific region.
