Global diplomacy in motion President Prabowo's 16 day working visit with Teuku Rezasyah

Summary

The video script discusses Indonesian President Prabowo's international diplomatic visit, beginning with China and then proceeding to Washington, DC, Peru, Brazil, and the UK. Experts analyze the significance of these visits for Indonesia, its relations with China, and how this reflects Indonesia's strategic interests in Asia and globally. Topics include the South China Sea dispute, the dynamics between Indonesia and the US, and Indonesia's non-aligned foreign policy. The trip emphasizes Indonesia’s role as a credible middle power on the global stage, reinforcing its influence in international relations, peace, and economic development.

Takeaways

• 😀 President Joko Widodo's international tour includes visits to China, the US, Peru, Brazil, and the UK, highlighting Indonesia's strategic role globally.
• 😀 Indonesia's relationship with China is both practical and historical, with proximity influencing the decision for China to be the first destination on President Prabowo's visit.
• 😀 China's growing global influence is acknowledged by Indonesia, though there are ongoing tensions, particularly regarding the South China Sea and Indonesia's stance on maritime sovereignty.
• 😀 Indonesia has strong, multifaceted diplomatic ties with both China and the US, balancing cooperation with these powers while maintaining its non-aligned foreign policy.
• 😀 Indonesia emphasizes maintaining a free and active foreign policy, aiming to support international law and foster cooperation with countries of various political ideologies.
• 😀 President Prabowo's visit to China in 2024 follows an invitation from President Xi Jinping, reinforcing long-standing relations between the two nations.
• 😀 The South China Sea remains a sensitive issue for Indonesia, with the government reaffirming its commitment to upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
• 😀 Indonesia is strategically positioning itself as a global bridge-builder, representing both non-aligned nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
• 😀 President Prabowo's outreach to countries like Brazil and Peru reflects Indonesia's growing influence in global economic platforms like APEC and G20.
• 😀 The potential expansion of Indonesia's role within BRICS is discussed, with the aim of balancing relations with the West while fostering economic cooperation among emerging powers.

Q & A

Why did President Prabowo choose China as the first country to visit during his international trip?

President Prabowo's choice of China as the first country to visit is largely due to geographical and strategic reasons. The distance from Jakarta to Beijing is significantly shorter compared to Jakarta to Washington D.C., making it a more practical option. Additionally, Indonesia views China as an important partner, along with other global powers like the USA, Russia, and the EU.

How does Indonesia view its relationship with China, particularly in relation to the South China Sea dispute?

Indonesia acknowledges China's global power and its interest in the South China Sea, but maintains its stance based on international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Despite tensions over the South China Sea, Indonesia emphasizes the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations with China, while continuing to assert its own maritime sovereignty.

What is the significance of the joint statement signed between Indonesia and China regarding the South China Sea?

The joint statement signed between Indonesia and China in November 2024 has sparked international debate. While Indonesia asserts that the agreement does not endorse China's 'nine-dash line' in the South China Sea, some view it as a subtle recognition of China's claims. The implementation of this agreement remains under scrutiny, particularly concerning maritime sovereignty and cooperation between the two countries' Coast Guards.

What is the role of Indonesia's foreign policy, and how does President Prabowo's diplomatic approach reflect it?

Indonesia's foreign policy remains centered on being 'free and active,' meaning that it seeks to maintain diplomatic relations with all countries, regardless of political ideologies, as long as it adheres to international law. President Prabowo's diplomatic style, informed by his military and political experiences, allows Indonesia to engage with global issues from a multidimensional and intergenerational perspective.

What impact might Indonesia's participation in BRICS have on its international relations?

Indonesia's participation in BRICS could help strengthen its position as a credible regional power. It provides Indonesia with greater influence on global economic discussions, especially within the context of BRICS' challenge to Western dominance. However, BRICS members, such as China and Russia, may seek to use Indonesia's membership to further their geopolitical goals, particularly in areas like economic development and investment.

What is the significance of President Prabowo's planned visits to Brazil, Peru, and the UK?

President Prabowo's visits to Brazil, Peru, and the UK signal Indonesia's desire to strengthen its international relationships beyond Southeast Asia. Through engagement with these countries, Indonesia seeks to play a more significant role in global forums like the G20 and APEC, while asserting its position as a credible middle power with the capacity to influence world peace.

How does Indonesia's strategic location influence its foreign policy decisions?

Indonesia's strategic location in Southeast Asia allows it to engage with both regional and global powers effectively. By balancing relationships with countries like China, the United States, and the EU, Indonesia seeks to maintain a neutral and active stance in international politics, making it an important player in ASEAN and beyond.

What role does Indonesia's relationship with the United States play in its broader foreign policy?

Indonesia's relationship with the United States has fluctuated over time, but it remains a key partnership due to historical and geopolitical factors. Despite past tensions, Indonesia continues to prioritize maintaining strong ties with the U.S. to support regional stability, economic cooperation, and mutual respect for sovereignty.

What are the key challenges Indonesia faces in balancing its relationship with China and the United States?

Indonesia faces the challenge of maintaining a neutral stance while balancing its relations with two global powers that often have conflicting interests. The South China Sea dispute is a major point of contention with China, while Indonesia must also navigate its economic and diplomatic ties with the U.S., ensuring that both relationships are productive and mutually beneficial.

What message does President Prabowo hope to convey to the international community through this international trip?

President Prabowo aims to convey that Indonesia is not just a regional power but also a credible middle power with the capacity to contribute to global peace and stability. By engaging with key countries in the G20, APEC, and BRICS, Indonesia seeks to assert its role in shaping global economic and political discourse.