ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – The State of California is exploring a broader strategic partnership with Indonesia, with both sides seeking new opportunities in trade, clean energy, innovation, investment and education.
The opportunity emerged during a dialogue between the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) and a delegation of California legislators and business representatives at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.
Hosted by the Indonesian Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP), the Friendly Talk meeting marked an initial step to strengthen engagement between Indonesia and one of the world’s largest economic regions.
Deputy Chairman of DPR RI Commission IX, Charles Honoris, said the visit reflected growing interest from California to explore potential cooperation with Indonesia at both national and regional levels.
“The delegation came to Jakarta to learn more about DPR RI and explore cooperation opportunities between California and Indonesia, including with provincial governments that have strategic potential,” Charles said.
He noted that several key sectors were discussed during the meeting, including trade, energy, innovation and education, which offer significant opportunities for future collaboration.
Expanding Economic and Innovation Links
Charles emphasized that the dialogue would be followed by further coordination between DPR RI, relevant parliamentary commissions, Indonesian regional governments and stakeholders to identify concrete cooperation opportunities.
“We will continue communication with related commissions and regional governments that may establish partnerships with California in the future,” he said.
The engagement comes as Indonesia continues to accelerate economic transformation through industrial development, digital innovation and sustainable energy initiatives.
At the same time, California remains a global center for technology, renewable energy, research and entrepreneurship, creating opportunities for stronger collaboration in areas that support future economic growth.
California Welcomes Deeper Cooperation
Stephanie Tran, Assemblymember for District 10 (Sacramento) and Vice-Chair of the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Legislative Caucus, welcomed the meeting and described it as an important foundation for closer relations between California and Indonesia.
“We are honored to be invited here together with California legislators to discuss various opportunities for collaboration. This is the first of many meetings to come, and we are committed to continuing dialogue on how we can work together in the future,” Tran said.
She added that continued engagement would help identify areas where California and Indonesia can create mutual benefits through cooperation among governments, legislators and business communities.
New Opportunities in the Asia-Pacific Economy
The meeting highlights the growing role of subnational diplomacy in strengthening international partnerships, as states and provinces increasingly contribute to economic connectivity and investment flows.
Indonesia, as Southeast Asia’s largest economy, continues to position itself as a key destination for global investment, particularly in renewable energy, advanced industries, technology and downstream manufacturing.
Meanwhile, California’s expertise in innovation, clean technology and entrepreneurship could provide valuable opportunities for collaboration as Indonesia pursues sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
The California delegation included Stephanie Tran, legislators and business representatives who are seeking to expand cooperation with Indonesia through stronger ties among parliaments, governments and the private sector.
The dialogue is expected to serve as a foundation for future partnerships that could deepen economic, technological and educational connections between Indonesia and California. (AT Network)
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