- VIVAnews/Tri Saputro
VIVAnews - Russian investors are planning to invest in the provinces of Kalimantan especially concerning with the building of coal carrier railways of 135 kilometers in length. The investment is figured to be worth US$2.5 billion and stretching from Central Kalimantan to East Kalimantan.
"It involves the Central Kalimantan and East Kalimantan governments, and a memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be signed during the Russian president's visit to Bali in the East Asia Summit in November," said Deputy of Economic Cooperation and International Finance Coordination, Coordinating Ministry for the Economy, Rizal Affandi Lukman, on Monday, August 1, 2011.
The government, Rizal went on, is currently collaborating with the respective local governments. In addition, the government will also check the preparation of Indonesian companies which will be Russia’s partners.
"If possible, at least three to five years after the (deal) signing. There are steps that must be taken. This is only regarding the construction agreement," he said.
So far, said Rizal, the Russians saw that the business potential of coal in Kalimantan is very large. However, the technology used is still inadequate. To support the plan, the Indonesian government is even ready to assist in matters related to environmental issues and environmental impact assessment (Amdal).
"It's part of MP3EI. I think the railway project can be used not only for coal, but also passengers," said Rizal.
Meanwhile, in a meeting with Minister Hatta Rajasa, the Russian ambassador agreed on enhancing cooperation in bilateral investments and the trade with Russia.
"The trade between the two countries still amounts to below US$2 billion, US$1.7 billion to be exact. But this year, in the first five months of 2011 it increased 50 percent and reached US$1 billion. It is predicted to reach US$2 billion by the year's end," said Rizal.
This agreement, he went on, will be outlined in the economic roadmap of both countries in the next five years, which will be discussed at the inter-ministerial meeting in October. This meeting is resulted from the Finance Minister Agus Martowardojo and Trade Minister Mari Elka Pangestu’s visit to Russia some time ago.
"The potential of Indonesia's exports to Russia includes crude palm oil (CPO), textiles, garments, footwear, and electronics. Those products can compete with China. Geographically, China benefits more as it is closer," said Rizal.
In addition, said Rizal, wheat imports from Russia are also expected to be an alternative apart from those from Australia and Turkey, so that the domestic market could be more competitive due to the increased consumption of this non-rice product.
"Russia's population is 140 million, its per capita income is USD 15,900. This country is a potential market," he concluded.
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Translated by: Indah Lestari
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