Prabowo Addresses Global Conflict, Reaffirms Indonesia's Non-Aligned Status

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that conflicts occurring in various regions of the world indicate that the international situation is in a precarious condition. He made this statement whilst virtually inaugurating 218 bridges across different regions of Indonesia on Monday, 9 March. During the occasion, he referenced the escalation of armed conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.

“I want to convey this because we are aware and understand that our world is now full of dangerous dynamics. Wars are breaking out everywhere, in almost all regions of the world, especially in the Middle East,” Prabowo said.

He cited the ongoing war in Ukraine and the expanding conflict in the Middle East as examples. Although Indonesia is geographically distant from these conflict zones, Prabowo argued that the impacts can be felt because the world is now increasingly interconnected.

“Although we are geographically far from that place, our earth has truly become small. What happens in one region will influence other regions,” he stated.

In light of the uncertain global situation, Prabowo reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to a free and active foreign policy. Indonesia, he said, does not align with any power bloc and chooses to maintain good relations with all countries.

“Our nation, our country is on the correct path. We are on a non-aligned path. We are always on the path of being free and active, non-bloc. We do not wish to join any bloc. We respect all powers, we respect all countries,” he explained.

Prabowo argued that this principle aligns with the value of diversity that has long formed the foundation of Indonesian society’s life. He emphasised that the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika applies not only domestically but is also reflected in Indonesia’s attitude towards other nations.

“That is Indonesia. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika domestically, but internationally we respect all nations, respect all religions, respect all races, respect all ethnic groups,” Prabowo said.

According to him, this spirit of mutual respect is one reason Indonesia has managed to maintain stability and live peacefully amid the diversity of hundreds of ethnic groups. In national life, Prabowo also stressed the importance of solidarity when citizens face difficulties.

“If any of our brethren face difficulties, the entire nation feels it and the entire nation responds,” he concluded.