HARIANEXPRESS – Indonesia is actively inviting Russian investors to participate in the bidding process for 138 oil and gas exploration blocks. This initiative aims to strengthen bilateral energy cooperation between the Southeast Asian nation and Moscow.
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) confirmed that the energy sector remains a key area of ongoing discussions between the two countries.
Indonesia’s Investment Push
The invitation for Russian investment aligns with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s recent visit to Vladivostok, Russia. He attended the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) on Thursday, September 3, as a guest of honor.
During this international forum, President Prabowo officially extended an invitation to Russian energy companies. He urged them to invest in and develop the 138 energy exploration blocks currently available across the Indonesian archipelago.
Developing Joint Energy Projects
Jakarta is currently engaged in active discussions regarding potential partnerships with Russian corporate groups. These talks focus on developing several joint energy projects, including refineries and storage terminals.
Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Ahmad Erani Yustika, confirmed on Friday that this offer is substantial.
The ministry is offering more than a hundred oil and gas blocks to Russian investors, should they be interested in joining the bidding process,
Yustika said. He further noted that ESDM Minister Bahlil Lahadalia is expected to provide more technical details on the concessions soon.
Although Indonesia possesses abundant liquefied natural gas (LNG) reserves and does not directly require Russian gas supplies, President Prabowo highlighted the country’s openness. Indonesia is highly receptive to adopting Russian energy technology and collaborating on joint infrastructure development projects.
