Hosting President Steinmeier, Prabowo Recounts His 1981 Training Experience in Germany
President Prabowo Subianto hosted a state banquet for President of the Federal Republic of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Büdenbender at the State Palace in Jakarta. During the banquet, Prabowo praised Germany as a centre of innovation and spoke about Indonesia’s third president, B.J. Habibie, who studied extensively in Germany.
Prabowo initially conveyed his appreciation for the bilateral relationship between Indonesia and Germany. According to Prabowo, Germany holds a strategic position for Indonesia and has provided tangible benefits.
“I appreciate the warm, open, and productive discussions we have had today. Ladies and gentlemen, Germany holds a special place for Indonesia. Over 74 years, our diplomatic relations have delivered tangible benefits to our people, making Germany one of our important partners in Europe,” Prabowo said.
Prabowo then praised Germany as a source of inspiration for Indonesia’s development, particularly in innovation and technological mastery. He noted this was reflected in the many Indonesians who have pursued education and training in Germany, including Habibie.
“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. The third president of Indonesia also had a long experience of studying and working in Germany,” he stated.
In connection with this, Prabowo expressed hope that the partnership between Indonesia and Germany could continue to be strengthened across various fields. On this occasion, the President also shared his personal experience of undergoing training in Germany in 1981.
“I personally can attest to this strength because I myself underwent training in Germany in 1981. I hope your visit can further strengthen our cooperation, especially amidst the current global dynamics and uncertainties,” he said.
Prabowo also emphasised Germany’s important role in introducing Indonesia to the international community, including through academic circles since before Indonesia’s independence.
“Therefore, although both countries will soon celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations, the roots of our relationship were actually established long before Indonesia’s independence,” Prabowo remarked.
Closing his speech, he expressed appreciation for President Steinmeier’s visit to Indonesia and hoped 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 wish President Steinmeier and Mrs Büdenbender health and success, and may the people of Indonesia and Germany continue to prosper and remain friends,” Prabowo concluded.