Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya explored avenues for collaboration with the Irish government to advance Indonesia’s creative industry as a national engine of growth.According to a press release issued on Wednesday, he noted that Ireland could be a valuable partner in broadening the outreach of Indonesian creative products in international markets.“Beyond job creation, the creative economy can help shape a more inclusive and forward-thinking economy. In this context, Ireland is the right partner that brings strengths in storytelling, digital industry, literature, and films,” Harsya said.He made the statement during an encounter with Irish Ambassador to Indonesia and ASEAN Sharon Lennon at a Saint Patrick’s Day event in Jakarta on Monday. The minister spotlighted Ireland’s extensive network, noting that the European nation ranks among the world’s largest exporters of creative services, valued at US$231 billion in 2022.Meanwhile, he noted that Indonesia exported US$11.9 million worth of goods in the computer and data processing sector to Ireland in 2024.Harsya expressed confidence that the two countries have great potential to expand collaboration through joint efforts aimed at leveraging innovation and talent.He emphasized that the Ministry of Creative Economy is determined to engage Ireland in intensified exchanges of students and artists, as well as cultural projects.Irish Ambassador to Indonesia and ASEAN Sharon Lennon extended appreciation to the minister and his aides for joining the Saint Patrick’s Day celebration.She said Indonesia’s participation reaffirmed the pivotal role of creativity and culture in ties between both nations.The ambassador echoed Harsya’s view that the creative economy should play a central role in future cooperation between the two countries.She added that Ireland is committed to expanding partnerships across key sub-sectors such as fashion, gaming, gastronomy, and culture.Lennon also expressed hope that Indonesia would take part in global Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations while fostering stronger connections among creative professionals, academics, and communities in both countries.