Prabowo's diplomacy delivers results, cabinet secretary says

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto’s overseas visits over the past 1.5 years have produced tangible gains for Indonesia’s national interests, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said.

“It is completely wrong to say these visits are merely ceremonial. We need to look at what has been achieved over the past 1.5 years,” Teddy said, according to a Cabinet Secretariat social media post on Monday.

Teddy said one outcome of Indonesia’s diplomacy was joining BRICS, which he said helped support fuel supply stability and maintain subsidized fuel prices during global disruptions.

He also said Indonesia secured zero percent tariffs for exports to 25 European countries beginning in 2025.

In the economic sector, Teddy cited Investment Coordinating Board data showing incoming investment reached Rp2,430 trillion, equivalent to about US$135.8 billion, during the past 1.5 years.

Prabowo’s recent visits to Japan and South Korea also secured additional investment commitments worth Rp575 trillion, or around US$32.1 billion, he said.

In defense, Teddy said Indonesia strengthened access to military equipment through cooperation with countries including France, the United States, Russia, China and the United Kingdom.

He added that diplomatic engagement with Saudi Arabia has also supported smoother Hajj arrangements, including plans for a dedicated Hajj village for Indonesian pilgrims.

Indonesia’s support for Palestinians has included air shipments of aid, hospital ships and scholarship programs for Palestinian students, Teddy said.

Responding to criticism over efficiency, Teddy said President Prabowo personally covers any excess costs related to overseas visits.

He added that presidential delegations have been reduced significantly to between 50 and 60 people.

According to Teddy, foreign trips and international meetings are scheduled based on urgent priorities determined directly by the president and foreign minister

Teddy urged the public not to overlook what he described as the government’s diplomatic achievements.