Indonesia has been selected to host the East Asian World Economic Forum (WEF) in Jakarta later this year.

It will be the country’s first time holding the annual event which will take place from 12 June to 13 June 2011, The Jakarta Post reported.

Indonesia’s Trade Minister Mari Elka Pangestu said the country will take the opportunity to present its leadership to ASEAN and East Asian nations.

“For the first time, Indonesia has been given the trust to preside over such an event, which coincides with the 20th WEF in Davos, Switzerland,” Ms Pangestu said. 

“We want Indonesia to take on the role of a leader and become a significant player in the East and Southeast Asian region.”

Ms Pangestu added that the East Asian WEF would take the chance to discuss issues concerning commodity prices, staple food and energy.

The WEF forum has previously been held in Singapore, Japan, Malaysia and Vietnam.