The report highlighted UCLG ASPAC Climate Resilient and Inclusive Cities (CRIC), as one of the key EU Cooperation projects in Indonesia working in the Environment and Climate Change sector.

European Union Delegation Launched the EU-Indonesia Cooperation 2024-2025 Report which took place yesterday, on 17th September at Shangri La Hotel, Jakarta. The report weaves stories of collaboration between the EU and Indonesia captured in a biennial publication.

Denis Chaibi, EU Ambassador to Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam, mentioned in his opening speech that the publication was launched in an important moment when Indonesia is transitioning to the new administration.

“We have done it (the publication) for more than 20 years with more and more stories of EU and Indonesia partnerships that bring solutions for both countries, addressing global challenges collectively for peace, prosperity and sustainability,” he said.

Suharso Monoarfa, Minister of National Development Planning (Bappenas), also delivered his keynote speech at the event. Suharso mentioned that through the EU technical aid facility, Indonesia managed to mobilise together stakeholders across sectors including government, private sector, academia and CSOs to discuss trade cooperation, which will enable more flow of European investment in the country.

“In conclusion, EU-Indonesia cooperation has been a cornerstone of our development efforts, and we look forward to delivering more efficient cooperation based on shared values for mutual interest and fruitful partnership,” Suharso said.

Among the publication’s highlighted initiatives was UCLG ASPAC’s Climate Resilient and Inclusive Cities (CRIC), an EU-funded project, as one of the key EU Cooperation projects in Indonesia’s Environment and Climate Change sector.

On page 85, the publication specifically highlights the project’s role in fostering sustainable urban development through partnerships between European and Indonesian cities. “In an era marked by rapid urbanisation and pressing climate challenges, the need for innovative partnerships between cities and research centres has never been greater,” the report states.

The report mentioned that CRIC partnership has proved enduring connections and helped knowledge exchange between diverse stakeholders to catalyse transformative change at both local and national levels. EU’s acknowledgement has created another milestone for the CRIC project as it continues its work during the Non-Cost Extension (NCE) period next year, further advancing its targets and contributing to Indonesia’s climate resilience.

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Hizbullah Arief is Project Manager of CRIC Project