RI, US ink deal on environmental partnership

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta | Mon, 06/27/2011

The Indonesian Environment Ministry and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) here on Monday on partnership for environmental protection and sustainable utilization of natural resources.

“The MoU is a positive step in our efforts to tackle tremendous challenges in protecting our environment,” Indonesian Environment Minister Gusti Muhammad Hatta said after the signing.

He said the EPA had a great deal of experience in dealing with various environmental issues, such as rehabilitating mining sites and heavily-polluted areas.

EPA assistant administrator for international and tribal affairs Michelle DePass said the U.S. recognized Indonesia as an essential partner in strengthening global environmental protection efforts.

“We are pleased to cooperate with Indonesia on protecting human health and the environment in both of our countries,” DePass said. (rpt)