By: Rizky Maulana
The working visit of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, to several key partner countries forms part of the government’s comprehensive strategy to strengthen Indonesia’s position at the global level. The agenda was designed not merely as ceremonial diplomacy, but as a concrete step to expand strategic collaboration that directly impacts national interests.
In the context of an increasingly dynamic geopolitical landscape, the government views it as essential to build intensive communication with influential countries. Bilateral meetings and participation in international forums are being utilized to reaffirm Indonesia’s commitment as a stable, credible partner that is open to mutually beneficial cooperation.
The main focus of the visit is the strengthening of economic cooperation. The government is encouraging broader market access, increased investment, and value-added industrial collaboration. Economic diplomacy is positioned as a primary instrument to ensure that national growth remains safeguarded amid global uncertainty.
Each negotiation undertaken is directed at reinforcing the domestic economic structure. The government seeks to ensure that trade and investment cooperation not only increases transaction figures but also expands national production capacity and broadens employment opportunities.
The approach reflects Indonesia’s consistency in implementing a free and active foreign policy. The government maintains balanced relations with major world powers without becoming entangled in geopolitical rivalries. This strategy underscores Indonesia’s presence as an independent partner that prioritizes national interests.
Support for these diplomatic efforts has also come from Indonesian students abroad. The Indonesian Student Association in the United States (Permias) expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts to strengthen bilateral partnerships amid complex global conditions.
Permias National President Axel Hutapea assessed that the current national leadership is at a crucial phase in determining the direction of Indonesia’s foreign relations. He expressed confidence that the government is capable of producing policies that deliver tangible benefits for public welfare.
According to Axel, the President’s active diplomacy reflects a serious commitment to advancing national interests. He believes that the direct presence of the head of state at various global forums carries significant political weight while increasing international partners’ confidence in Indonesia.
Indonesian students overseas also hope for stronger protection of Indonesian citizens abroad. These aspirations include guarantees of security, legal certainty, and support for the diaspora contributing across various strategic sectors.
In addition, Permias emphasized the importance of connectivity between the education sector and the needs of national industry. Axel noted that overseas graduates should be facilitated to play an optimal role in domestic economic development.
Research downstreaming was another key concern expressed by students. They hope that research outcomes and innovations developed abroad can be integrated into national industrial policies to accelerate economic self-reliance.
Support for the President’s diplomacy was also conveyed by Deputy Chair of Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Dave Laksono. He assessed that the President’s series of visits to global centers of diplomacy and economic power are not routine agendas, but strategic steps that reaffirm Indonesia’s position as a respected global partner.
According to Dave, the President’s presence in international forums enhances global confidence in Indonesia’s political and economic stability. He views Indonesia’s reputation as a stable and promising country as an important asset in attracting long-term investment.
Dave also observed that meetings with world leaders open opportunities for cooperation in trade, technology, defense, and higher education. Such collaboration is believed to strengthen national industrial competitiveness and expand Indonesia’s economic networks across various regions.
The President’s participation in international economic forums further underscores Indonesia’s commitment to playing an active role in maintaining stability and promoting global growth. These forums serve as strategic platforms to broaden networks with heads of state and international industry leaders.
The government has used this momentum to promote Indonesia’s potential as a safe and promising investment destination. Domestic stability, structural reforms, and the industrial downstreaming agenda have been key messages delivered in various meetings.
These diplomatic steps demonstrate that the government is acting proactively in responding to global dynamics. Indonesia is not waiting for change to occur, but rather taking the initiative to strengthen its position as a relevant and constructive strategic partner.
A firm yet friendly approach characterizes the diplomacy being carried out. The government affirms its readiness to become an equal partner in international cooperation while safeguarding national interests as the top priority.
Ultimately, the working visit illustrates a foreign policy direction that is integrated with the national development agenda. Diplomacy does not stand alone, but forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen the economic foundation, expand industrial opportunities, and improve public welfare.
Through measured and consistent steps, Indonesia increasingly affirms its role as a strategic global partner. The government demonstrates that global collaboration can proceed in tandem with the strengthening of national economic sovereignty.
The growing confidence of international partners serves as evidence that Indonesia is on the right track. With maintained stability and clear policy direction, Indonesia stands ready to contribute actively to the global order while delivering tangible benefits to its people.
*) Researcher in International Relations and Economic Geopolitics
