The Presidential Communication Office (PCO) highlighted the positive outcomes of President Prabowo Subianto’s diplomatic efforts in various countries. These efforts have resulted in the signing of 71 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with 13 countries and investment commitments amounting to nearly IDR 800 trillion from four nations. According to Philips J. Vermonte, a Senior Expert at the PCO, these achievements demonstrate Indonesia’s successful economic diplomacy in accessing new markets. This was discussed during a public event titled “The Fruits of President Prabowo’s Diplomatic Outreach on the Global Stage”, organized by the GEMPITA at Retro Café in Jakarta.
Among the notable accomplishments cited by Philips was Indonesia’s inclusion in the BRICS international organization, which marks a strategic move to expand the market amidst global uncertainty. He clarified that Indonesia’s participation in BRICS is not intended as an anti-Western or anti-American stance, but rather a way to strengthen relations with major global powers like Russia, China, and India. Philips also highlighted the reduction in U.S. import tariffs on Indonesian goods from 32% to 19% as a significant achievement resulting from President Prabowo’s diplomatic efforts.
Deputy Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno emphasized Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to further reduce tariffs, noting that the country currently holds the lowest tariff rate in ASEAN at 19%. He urged the public not to overreact or make assumptions about Indonesia’s trade diplomacy, emphasizing that decisions are made based on national interests rather than emotions. Deputy Minister Havas encouraged a data-driven approach in analyzing diplomatic decisions and advised against jumping to conclusions without proper information.
