Presidential Communication Office (PCO) highlighted the positive outcomes of President Prabowo Subianto’s diplomatic efforts in various countries, pointing out the signing of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and substantial investment commitments from partner nations. According to Philips J. Vermonte, Senior Expert at the PCO, within a year of President Prabowo taking office, 71 MoUs with 13 countries were secured, along with investment commitments nearing IDR 800 trillion from four countries. This move aims to expand Indonesia’s economic diplomacy reach by tapping into new markets. The public discussion titled “The Fruits of President Prabowo’s Diplomatic Outreach on the Global Stage” shed light on Indonesia’s enrollment in BRICS as a strategic market expansion initiative amidst global uncertainties affecting international diplomacy and economic engagements. Contrary to claims suggesting an anti-Western or anti-American stance, joining BRICS allows Indonesia to enhance relations with major global powers like Russia, China, and India while maintaining a non-aligned position. The diplomatic achievements include a significant reduction in U.S. import tariffs on Indonesian goods following negotiations between President Prabowo and President Trump, highlighting that Indonesia’s BRICS membership is not a threat to the United States. Deputy Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno emphasized Indonesia’s pursuit of further tariff reductions and clarified that trade diplomacy decisions are based on national interests rather than emotions. Havas urged the public to avoid overreactions and assumptions, emphasizing the importance of factual analysis in assessing diplomatic developments.
Investment Commitments from President Prabowo Totaling IDR 800 Trillion
