President Prabowo Subianto’s diplomatic efforts have led to positive outcomes, as stated by the Presidential Communication Office (PCO). Through various diplomatic missions to different countries, a total of 71 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with 13 countries have been signed, along with investment commitments amounting to nearly IDR 800 trillion from four countries. This signifies a significant milestone in expanding Indonesia’s economic diplomacy to new markets, as highlighted by Philips J. Vermonte, Senior Expert at the PCO, during a public discussion event titled “The Fruits of President Prabowo’s Diplomatic Outreach on the Global Stage.”
The discussion, organized by the Central Board of the Patriotic Millennial Movement (GEMPITA), took place at Retro Café, Beltway Office Park in Jakarta. At the event, Philips pointed out Indonesia’s strategic move to join the BRICS international organization as a means to expand market reach amidst global uncertainties that limit traditional diplomatic avenues. He clarified that Indonesia’s participation in BRICS does not signify an anti-Western or anti-American stance, emphasizing the country’s non-aligned position.
Furthermore, Philips highlighted tangible diplomatic achievements, such as the reduction in U.S. import tariffs on Indonesian goods from 32% to 19%, showcasing successful negotiations between President Prabowo and President Trump. During the event, Deputy Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno also expressed Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to further reduce import tariffs, underscoring the country’s position with the lowest tariff rate in ASEAN at 19%.
Deputy Minister Havas urged the public to avoid overreacting or making assumptions regarding trade diplomacy, emphasizing that foreign policy decisions are based on national interests rather than emotions. He encouraged taking a data-driven approach and cautioned against jumping to conclusions without thorough evaluation. The event shed light on Indonesia’s proactive stance in diplomatic engagements and its commitment to fostering beneficial international relations for economic growth and development.
