Diplomatic missions carried out by President Prabowo Subianto to various countries have resulted in positive outcomes, according to the Presidential Communication Office (PCO). It was highlighted that the President’s efforts led to the signing of numerous memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and significant investment commitments from several partner nations. Senior Expert Philips J. Vermonte stated that within less than a year of President Prabowo taking office, 71 MoUs with 13 countries were secured, along with investment commitments of almost IDR 800 trillion from four countries. These initiatives aimed to expand market access beyond Indonesia’s traditional economic diplomacy targets.
The public discussion titled “The Fruits of President Prabowo’s Diplomatic Outreach on the Global Stage” shed light on Indonesia’s entry into the BRICS international organization as a strategic move amid global uncertainties. Philips emphasized that joining BRICS does not signify anti-Western or anti-American sentiments but rather a means to strengthen relations with major global powers. He pointed out diplomatic successes, such as the reduction in U.S. import tariffs on Indonesian goods and ongoing efforts to further decrease trade barriers.
Deputy Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno stressed that trade diplomacy decisions are driven by national interests, urging the public not to overreact but instead analyze data before forming conclusions. He clarified that Indonesia holds the lowest tariff rate in ASEAN and emphasized the importance of understanding foreign policy based on national interest rather than emotions or assumptions. The event organized by the Patriotic Millennial Movement served as a platform to discuss the tangible benefits of President Prabowo’s diplomatic engagements and the strategic direction of Indonesia’s economic diplomacy efforts on the global stage.
