Jakarta. US Ambassador to Indonesia, Kamala Shirin Lakhdhir, met with representatives from the US and Indonesian pharmaceutical companies on Tuesday to discuss the importance of healthcare services and innovative therapies available to the Indonesian population.

The United States Embassy is facilitating partnerships between the public and private sectors to enhance health outcomes in Indonesia, aiming for a more inclusive healthcare system. US pharmaceutical companies operating in Indonesia face specific challenges, including complex and constantly changing regulations, lengthy approval processes, and local content requirements that can increase costs and complicate supply chains.

The spokesperson for the US Embassy, Jamie Ravetz, emphasized the value the United States places on the contributions of US pharmaceutical companies that are proactively engaged in Indonesia. These companies are advancing the healthcare industry by providing innovative solutions to ensure better access and affordability of quality healthcare services.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of US-Indonesia diplomatic relations, a milestone that has become increasingly significant as the partnership evolves into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Ravetz said that the US looks forward to collaborating with the new government to support Indonesia's efforts to boost economic growth and attract more foreign direct investment from the private sector.

For decades, the United States has partnered with Indonesia to develop the country's healthcare system and advance shared priorities. The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has assisted in responding to public health and humanitarian crises, including the Covid-19 pandemic, by working alongside the Indonesian government, private sector, civil society, and other donors.