As global trade tensions rise as a result of the United States of America’s trade policies, the CEO of the global law firm Dentons, Kate Barton, met the Indonesian Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (EMR), Yuliot Tanjung, at the Ministry of EMR. This meeting discussed amongst other matters a strategy Indonesia could adopt to face the potential impact of a tariff war and also the government’s efforts to encourage the transition to renewable energy as a long term solution to strengthen the nation’s competitiveness.

The Deputy Minister of EMR affirmed that Indonesia is not following a path of confrontation in responding to tariff pressure but rather is preparing a special team for negotiations based on the national interest. “The Ministry of EMR has a crucial role in reducing deficits whereby the Energy sector can play a big role in reducing the trade deficit with America,” said Yuliot Tanjung.

Kate Barton conveyed appreciation for Indonesia’s diplomatic approach in facing global pressures. She stressed that Dentons, as the largest law firm in the world, present in 85 countries, has a broad experience of representing governments and companies in international negotiations and dispute resolution, including finding trade solutions between countries. “Dentons has represented various countries in facing tariff issues and is capable of handling potential disputes involving the US Government,” Barton said. 

Andre Rahadian, one of Dentons HPRP’s founding partners, who was also present in the meeting, affirmed that HPRP was ready to support the Indonesian government in the tariff negotiations process. Andre mentioned the long-term importance of achieving renewable energy targets. “We are ready to become a strategic partner to ensure energy transition in line with the law which is sustainable and attractive to investors,” he said.

Kate Barton’s visit to Indonesia is part of a series of trips she is making to major Asian countries, such as Hong Kong, the Philippines, and South Korea. This visit’s purpose was to strengthen cross-jurisdiction cooperation and expand Dentons’ role as the largest law firm in the world in facing global challenges. 

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