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Jokowi’s foreign policy: Continuity, new initiatives
The notion that foreign policy is a reflection of national interests, and hence national needs, remains valid. By law, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo is the author of foreign policy. #opinion
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In consultation: President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi discuss on the sidelines the 30th ASEAN Summit in Manila, the Philippines, on April 29. (Courtesy of the Presidential Office/File)
P
ublic assessment of foreign policy cannot escape the weight of perception. Nonetheless, albeit difficult, it is always important to strike a balance between perception and fact.
Kornelius Purba provided a critical perspective on Indonesia’s foreign policy in his article “Jokowi needs powerful foreign minister” (The Jakarta Post, July 19). Previously, the Post published Endy M. Bayuni’s opinion piece titled “ASEAN unites in claiming centrality in Indo-Pacific region”.
The endorsement of ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, according to Endy, represented a major diplomatic achievement for Indonesia, something the nation had somehow failed to appreciate.
The notion that foreign policy is a reflection of national interests, and hence national needs, remains valid. By law, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo is the author of foreign policy.
Jokowi prioritizes the economic aspect of foreign affairs without neglecting the fundamental aspect of geopolitics. He is not indifferent to foreign affairs.
Jokowi’s foreign policy is captured in his Nawacita manifesto and Trisakti ideology. His maritime orientation is strong.
Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi, as the chief diplomat, is the one who crafted, out of Jokowi’s rigid agenda, a priority of summit diplomacy to meet Jokowi’s political manifesto, ideological vision and maritime orientation.
