Brussels. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday praised the landmark economic partnership with Indonesia, saying the deal comes at a crucial moment as “economic uncertainty meets geopolitical volatility.”

Speaking alongside President Prabowo Subianto at a joint press conference in Brussels, von der Leyen stressed the importance of predictability and long-term partnerships, as both Indonesia and the European Union are facing mounting trade pressures, including steep tariffs from the United States under President Donald Trump.

In addition, tensions between the EU and the Trump administration continue to rise over support for Ukraine, whose war with Russia has now entered its fourth year.

“We're living in turbulent times, and when economic uncertainty meets geopolitical volatility, partners like us must come closer together,” von der Leyen told Prabowo during the press conference, which was streamed live by the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube channel.

She confirmed that the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is nearing conclusion after a decade of negotiations and will deliver mutual benefits.

“I am very pleased to report that we have just reached a political agreement on an ambitious free trade agreement. After 10 years of negotiations, we have achieved a breakthrough. So, Mr. President, I want to thank you for your leadership,” she said.

“Together, we are sending a strong message about the importance of predictable, long-term partnerships. Partnerships that are built on trust, reciprocity, transparency, and shared values.”

Von der Leyen highlighted Indonesia’s role as a key economic partner for the EU under the new agreement.

“Indonesia is one of the largest economies in the world, with a GDP of 1.2 trillion euros. It is a leading supplier of goods that are vital for the digital and green transition, and it represents a growing market of over 287 million people. Together, we represent a market of 730 million people,” she said.

Without naming countries or individuals, von der Leyen criticized those who turned to protectionism and told Prabowo: "The message we sent today is powerful and clear. In hard times, some turn inwards towards isolation and fragmentation. Europe and Indonesia are choosing a different path, one of openness, partnership, and shared opportunities."

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