Russia open to discussions with ASEAN on aligning digital transactions

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Russian Ambassador to ASEAN, Evgeny Zagaynov, stated that his country is opening space for discussions with partner nations in Southeast Asia to align transaction systems and the digital economy.

“This is something open for us to discuss with our partners in Southeast Asia, both bilaterally and with ASEAN as an organisation. This is an issue we propose to discuss with our partners,” said Ambassador Zagaynov in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, ASEAN and Russia will require time to reach a trade target of US$100 billion (equivalent to Rp1,797 quadrillion).

“This is a very ambitious target, but it will certainly take time, especially considering the current geopolitical situation and the legal restrictions that have been imposed on Russia,” said Zagaynov.

These obstacles include financial restrictions deemed unlawful, as well as the threat of secondary sanctions against partners, which are considered unacceptable.

“We need to oppose such threats, and we need to find the right way forward together with our partners in this region,” he added.

These restrictions directly affect Russia and its partner countries in ASEAN, as they hinder Russia’s efforts to contribute to regional development.

“Therefore, one of the tasks is to address these logistical issues, the financial aspects of our cooperation, and to work on alternative financial schemes to continue our bilateral cooperation,” he said.

Previously, on Tuesday (23/6), the Indonesian Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, stated that the use of national currencies in bilateral trade between Indonesia and Russia aims to reduce the risks of global fiscal pressure.

By expanding payments using national currencies, bilateral cooperation is expected to become increasingly strong and enhanced.