President Prabowo’s Presence in China is a Diplomatic Honor, a Strategic Step to Maintain Friendship
Jakarta – Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that President Prabowo’s visit to China was a direct invitation from President Xi Jinping. This was certainly not an ordinary invitation, but rather a diplomatic honor.
This was conveyed by State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi when asked by media crew in Jakarta regarding President Prabowo’s presence in China.
“This is not just a matter of protocol, but a rare diplomatic honor,” he stressed.
He added that the President’s decision to travel to China was pre-planned and took into account the dynamics of the domestic situation over the past few days. President Prabowo expressed his gratitude to the public, the police, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and the central and regional governments for their swift collaboration in maintaining unity and order, enabling the national situation to gradually recover.
“To maintain good relations with the Chinese government, the President has decided to depart and will return to Indonesia as soon as possible,” Prasetyo explained.
President Prabowo’s presence at the military parade in Beijing is expected to strengthen bilateral relations between Indonesia and China and open up space for dialogue with leaders of other countries on the international stage.
Meanwhile, international relations observer Dinna Prapto Raharja said President Prabowo’s presence in China demonstrates Indonesia’s role as a middle power seeking to hear directly from major countries amidst tense global dynamics.
“I hope the President will follow up by maintaining a calm global situation and not be provoked by harsh rhetoric,” he said.
Meanwhile, CELIOS Executive Director Bhima Yudhistira believes China holds a crucial position in the Indonesian economy. Therefore, President Prabowo’s presence is a strategic move.
“Yes, this is because China’s position as an investor and trading partner is very significant,” he emphasized.
“This opportunity can be used to improve the quality of cooperation, from workforce development to downstream investment,” explained Bhima.
He added that President Prabowo could encourage Indonesia-China cooperation to expand beyond smelter construction to include the middle and manufacturing sectors, including electric vehicles.
“This cooperative relationship with China is truly win-win and adds value to Indonesia,” he said.
