In a momentous development on the global stage, Prabowo Subianto, the president-elect of Indonesia, has recently completed a diplomatic tour of China, Japan, and Malaysia, signaling his dedication to bolstering foreign relations in anticipation of assuming office in October.
Having previously served as President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo’s defense minister, Prabowo is well-versed in international affairs, having received education in Kuala Lumpur, Zurich, and London, as well as military training in the United States. His extensive experience has honed his ability to engage with foreign leaders and navigate diverse diplomatic scenarios effectively.
During his visit to China, Prabowo engaged in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping on April 1. President Xi was interested in assessing Prabowo’s commitment to continuing Jokowi’s established policies, given their close relationship. Jokowi, a frequent visitor to China during his ten-year presidency, has played a key role in fostering relations between the two nations.
Prabowo assured President Xi of his intention to uphold continuity in Indonesia-China relations, affirming his full support for strengthening ties, aligning with Jokowi’s policy of friendship with China. In response, President Xi recognized Prabowo as an “old friend of the Chinese people,” underscoring the strategic and long-term perspective with which China views its relations with Indonesia.
Their discussions also encompassed the economic aspect, with Xi highlighting the China-built high-speed train link between Jakarta and Bandung as a prime example of high-quality cooperation between the two nations. This collaboration is significant, reflecting Jokowi’s consistent efforts to attract Chinese investment in Indonesia.
However, concerns have been raised about safety and labor rights in the wake of a tragic explosion at a China-financed smelter in Sulawesi in late 2023. Prabowo’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of Indonesian workers amid foreign investments will be crucial in ensuring sustainable economic growth.
Alongside his meeting with President Xi, Prabowo also engaged with Premier Li Qiang and Defense Minister Dong Jun, emphasizing the importance of military cooperation and modernization. The intricacies of their discussions on the South China Sea and Indonesia’s stance on strategic autonomy have piqued the curiosity of the international community regarding the future direction of these vital diplomatic relations.
Prabowo’s international outreach extended beyond China as he also conducted discussions with political leaders in Japan and Malaysia, demonstrating his commitment to cultivating strong ties within the Asian region. However, his true test on the international stage will come as the Indonesian Constitutional Court prepares to hear a case brought by Prabowo’s election opponents, alleging widespread election fraud. This legal dispute will undoubtedly influence perceptions of Prabowo’s legitimacy as the incoming president.
As Prabowo readies himself for office, his recent diplomatic efforts serve as a testament to Indonesia’s unwavering dedication to preserving diplomatic relationships and enhancing its standing on the global stage. His interactions with world leaders signify his ambition to ensure harmonious relations with key international partners, positioning Indonesia as a significant player in shaping the future of international diplomacy.
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