Foreign Ministry affirms energy cooperation conducted in accordance with national interests

Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) has affirmed that energy cooperation between Indonesia and partner countries is conducted based on national interests, ensuring no need to pit one country against another. “We understand the context of this cooperation is diversification of sources to ensure energy resilience. Therefore, our national interests are the priority,” stated Spokesperson for Kemlu RI, Vahd Nabyl A. Mulachela, in Jakarta on Thursday. This was conveyed by Nabyl in relation to the continuation of energy sector cooperation between Indonesia and the United States following Indonesia’s decision to procure crude oil and LPG from Russia. He is confident that energy cooperation with Russia will not impact cooperation with the US, as bilateral relations with both are equally strong. “Of course, we will align with our national interests; this is the basis for us,” said Nabyl. At the Merdeka Palace grounds in Jakarta on Thursday afternoon, Bahlil explained that the domestic need for crude oil is approximately 300 million barrels per year. Therefore, Indonesia will receive crude oil supplies from various countries, including the US and Russia. “The question then is, with us buying crude oil from Russia, what about our agreements with other countries, including America? I say that our crude oil needs every year are approximately 300 million barrels. So, we take from all of them. Whatever is beneficial for our country, we must do,” stated Bahlil. Meanwhile, in response to Indonesia’s decision to explore energy purchases with Russia, PT Pertamina (Persero) stated that it will follow up in accordance with government directives and regulations.