The U.S. Embassy organized a visit by Pete C. Mehravari, Director of Policy and Legal Affairs for the International Intellectual Property Alliance (IIPA), to Indonesia from September 17 to September 23. The visit aimed to enhance cooperation between the United States and Indonesia on intellectual property rights (IPR) through various activities in Jakarta and Batam.
Mehravari’s agenda included workshops, panel discussions, and outreach sessions involving government officials, creative industry professionals, legal experts, journalists, and university students. In Jakarta, he led sessions in partnership with the Ministry of Creative Economy (EKRAF), focusing on protecting creativity and intellectual property in the digital age. These discussions also addressed challenges related to social media and streaming platforms, as well as strategies for entering international markets. Additional meetings were held with Universitas Indonesia and the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP).
In Batam, the program targeted small and medium enterprises (SMEs), app developers from the Apple Developer Academy, and local government representatives. Key topics included artificial intelligence challenges, understanding intellectual property rights for Indonesian creators or business owners, and how IPR protections can promote innovation and competitiveness.
Jamie Ravetz, spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy, stated: “The United States is proud to partner with Indonesia in advancing intellectual property rights, which are essential for fostering innovation, creativity, and economic growth. This program reflects our shared commitment to building a safer and stronger future for both nations by supporting Indonesia’s creative economy and strengthening bilateral collaboration.”
This initiative highlights ongoing efforts by both countries to strengthen their partnership in the Indo-Pacific region by promoting respect for intellectual property rights as a driver of innovation and economic development.