President Prabowo Subianto’s diplomatic efforts have proven to be fruitful, according to the Presidential Communication Office (PCO). These efforts have resulted in the signing of numerous memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and substantial investment commitments from various partner nations. Senior Expert Philips J. Vermonte from the PCO highlighted that within a year of President Prabowo taking office, Indonesia secured 71 MoUs with 13 countries and received investment commitments amounting to nearly IDR 800 trillion from four countries. These achievements are seen as important steps in expanding Indonesia’s economic diplomacy to new markets.
During a public discussion organized by the Gerakan Milenial Pecinta Tanah Air (GEMPITA) at Retro Café in Jakarta, Philips pointed out Indonesia’s entry into the BRICS international organization as a strategic move to enhance market opportunities. He clarified that Indonesia’s participation in BRICS does not signify an anti-Western or anti-American stance. Instead, it aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations with key global players such as Russia, China, and India. Philips also highlighted the successful negotiation of reduced U.S. import tariffs on Indonesian goods, from 32% to 19%, as a positive outcome of President Prabowo’s diplomatic efforts.
Deputy Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno emphasized Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to further reduce tariffs, noting that Indonesia currently maintains the lowest tariff rate among ASEAN countries at 19%. He cautioned against exaggerated reactions and emphasized that trade diplomacy decisions are made based on national interests rather than emotions. Deputy Minister Havas urged the public to analyze data before forming conclusions and not to be swayed by assumptions.
