German President Speaks Indonesian: 'President Prabowo, Thank You Very Much'

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier thanked President Prabowo Subianto, delivering his gratitude in Indonesian. “President Prabowo Subianto, thank you very much,” Steinmeier said in Indonesian at the Merdeka Palace on Monday (15/6/2026).

Steinmeier stated that Indonesia is an important partner for Germany. He noted that this was his fourth visit to Indonesia, with previous visits made when he was still Germany’s Foreign Minister. “This is the fourth time I have visited here. The number of visits demonstrates how important relations with Indonesia are for us in Germany,” he said.

According to Steinmeier, the meeting with Prabowo was held in a very difficult global situation. He cited several ongoing wars in various countries. “There is a war in Europe, as well as in Central Asia. And conflicts that continue, including in Sudan and those involving Germany that remain unresolved,” he stated.

Steinmeier revealed the reason for his visit to Indonesia, citing the country’s position which Germany considers important. “My return visit here has a serious reason. In a situation where the world is shaken by increasing violence in many regions,” he said alongside Prabowo. “In such a situation, a partnership like the one between Germany and Indonesia is very meaningful. This is a partnership between two countries that are mutually committed to a rules-based order,” he added.