Sugiono Pushes Indonesia-Russia Nuclear Cooperation for Energy Security

RRI.CO.ID, Kazan – Indonesia's Foreign Minister, Sugiono has called for stronger cooperation between Indonesia and Russia, including in the field of civilian nuclear technology, to support national and regional energy resilience. Speaking at the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan, Russia, on Thursday, Sugiono said that Russia is an important partner for ASEAN in strengthening energy security amid evolving global challenges.

"As a major energy producer, Russia can be an important partner in strengthening ASEAN’s energy resilience," Sugiono said in a statement received in Jakarta on Thursday, June 18, 2026.

According to him, ASEAN requires cooperation that can diversify energy sources, strengthen supply chains, and protect the region from external shocks. He emphasized that Indonesia is committed to achieving energy self-sufficiency within the next three years. To achieve this goal, the government is accelerating the development of renewable energy while exploring various other energy options.

One of the options being pursued is the use of civilian nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. "We are accelerating the development of renewable energy and exploring all available options, including the safe and peaceful use of civil nuclear technology," he said.

Sugiono noted that Russia’s extensive experience in nuclear technology development provides a strong foundation for cooperation between the two countries. Indonesia, he added, seeks a partnership focused on technology transfer, human resource development, and the implementation of the highest international safety standards.

"Russia's extensive experience in this field provides a strong foundation for cooperation," he said.

In addition to the energy sector, Sugiono highlighted the importance of cooperation with Russia in strengthening regional food security. Russia is one of the world's leading producers of grain and fertilizers and plays a strategic role in ensuring stable supplies for ASEAN countries.

According to him, such cooperation is necessary to guarantee stable and predictable food supplies while protecting food systems from external disruptions. "Because access to affordable and nutritious food should be within reach of every household," he said.

Furthermore, the Minister encouraged greater economic integration between ASEAN and the Eurasian region through enhanced connectivity and trade cooperation to create new opportunities for sustainable growth.

However, he stressed that discussions on energy, food, and economic growth cannot be separated from the conflicts that continue to affect global stability. "We cannot credibly discuss energy, food, or growth without addressing the conflicts that continue to destabilize the world," Sugiono said.

The ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan serves as a platform for ASEAN leaders and Russia to strengthen strategic partnerships across various sectors, including energy, food security, trade, and regional security.