Indonesia’s Foreign Diplomacy under President Prabowo Subianto
As the son of Sumitro Djojohadikusumo, President Prabowo Subianto is expected to continue his father’s diplomatic strategies. This involves using narrative and kinship to enhance Indonesia’s soft power.
Prof. Sumitro, besides being a renowned economist, was also a skilled diplomat. One notable instance of his diplomacy was documented in a New York Times article. In 1948, at the age of 31, Sumitro successfully stopped the flow of American aid funds to the Netherlands, which were being used for military operations in Indonesia following its independence proclamation.
Sumitro’s plea appealed to the United States Government to cease funding the Netherlands under the European Recovery Program due to their actions in Indonesia. His efforts led to the Netherlands recognizing Indonesia’s independence after negotiations at the Round Table Conference.
Sumitro’s expertise in narrative, negotiation, and international networking at a young age played a crucial role in securing Indonesia’s independence. President Sukarno even appointed him as Indonesia’s Ambassador to the United States at the age of 33.
