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Prabowo seeks stronger ties with Putin
The visit, considered by the Defense Ministry an “important step” toward a stronger Jakarta-Moscow relationship, saw the first meeting between Prabowo and Russian President Vladimir Putin since Prabowo won the presidential election.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with Defense Minister and president-elect Prabowo Subianto on July 31, 2024, during a meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia. (Reuters/Maxim Shemetov/Pool)
T
he European tour of Defense Minister and president-elect Prabowo Subianto has gone into an encore with a previously unannounced visit to Russia to strengthen the defense and diplomatic relations between the two countries, a move widely considered a signal against Western-oriented leadership.
The visit, considered by the Defense Ministry an “important step” toward a stronger Jakarta-Moscow relationship, saw the first meeting between Prabowo and Russian President Vladimir Putin since Prabowo won the presidential election.
During his meeting with Putin on Wednesday morning, Prabowo said that he was eager to further the two countries' bilateral relationship, adding that Russia has in the past "always helped" Indonesia during times of trouble, especially with early infrastructure development.
"We learn from our parents that we should never forget those who have helped us," Prabowo told Putin. "I came here to emphasize that I would like to enhance this relationship when I officially take over [Indonesia’s] presidency.”
Meanwhile, Putin said that Moscow viewed Prabowo as a “friend”, highlighting the fact that Indonesia-Russia trade has only increased in recent years despite the COVID-19 pandemic and global sanctions against Russia.
Negotiations for a free trade area between the Eurasian Economic Union and Indonesia are almost finished, Putin announced, adding that Indonesia is a significant ally for his country.
"Indonesia, with a population of almost 300 million, is in Russia's interest," Putin said. "We will increase agricultural exports and implement our energy, transport and infrastructure projects in your country."
