At State Luncheon, Prabowo Affirms Germany as Indonesia's Strategic Partner

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Germany is crucial in facing global challenges. He made the remarks during a state luncheon as part of the state visit of President of the Federal Republic of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife Elke Büdenbender at the State Palace in Jakarta on Monday. “I hope your visit can further strengthen our cooperation, especially amidst the current global dynamics and uncertainty,” the President said, according to a statement received on Tuesday. The state banquet was warm and cordial, reflecting the close friendship between the two nations. In his speech, President Prabowo expressed appreciation for the bilateral relations that have been established for decades between the two countries. According to Prabowo, Germany holds a strategic position for Indonesia and the partnership built so far has provided tangible benefits for the people of both countries. “I appreciate the warm, open, and productive discussions we have had today. Germany holds a special place for Indonesia. For 74 years, our diplomatic relations have provided real benefits for our people, making Germany one of our important partners in Europe,” he said. The Head of State also noted that Germany has been a source of inspiration for Indonesia’s development, particularly in the fields of innovation and technological mastery. This, according to the President, is reflected in the many Indonesians who pursue education and training in Germany. “Germany has consistently been a source of inspiration through innovation, technological advancement, discipline, and a strong respect for rules and institutions. Many Indonesians have studied and received training in Germany. Indonesia’s third president also had a long experience studying and working in Germany,” he stated. In connection with this, President Prabowo hopes that the Indonesia-Germany partnership can continue to be strengthened in various fields. On the occasion, the President also shared his personal experience of undergoing training in Germany in 1981. “I personally can also attest to this strength because I myself underwent training in Germany in 1981,” he said. President Prabowo also stressed Germany’s important role in introducing Indonesia to the international world, including through academic circles since before Indonesia’s independence. “Therefore, although the two countries will soon celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations, the roots of our relationship have actually been intertwined long before Indonesia’s independence,” the President remarked. Concluding his speech, Prabowo expressed appreciation for President Steinmeier’s visit to Indonesia and hoped that the friendship and cooperation between the two countries would continue to grow in the future. “I think many relationships will be supported in Germany. As a final note, I hope President Steinmeier and Mrs. Büdenbender remain healthy and successful, and that the people of Indonesia and Germany continue to prosper and be friends,” President Prabowo concluded.