Prabowo Hosts German President at Palace: Emphasises Innovation and Long History
President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, hosted a state luncheon to welcome the official visit of President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, at the State Palace in Jakarta on Monday (15/6). The meeting took place in a warm and cordial atmosphere, reaffirming the closeness of diplomatic relations that have been established for decades.
In his remarks, President Prabowo emphasised that Germany is a strategic partner that holds a special place in the hearts of the Indonesian people. He appreciated the productive dialogue that had been conducted and described Germany as one of the main pillars of Indonesia’s cooperation in the European region.
“Over 74 years, our diplomatic relations have brought tangible benefits to our people. Germany has consistently been a source of inspiration through innovation, technological advancement, and strong discipline,” President Prabowo stated in an official release.
President Prabowo highlighted how Germany has become a benchmark for technological development in Indonesia. This is evidenced by the many Indonesian citizens who pursue education and training there, including Indonesia’s third president, B.J. Habibie, who had a long track record in Germany.
On a personal note, Prabowo also shared his experience of undergoing military training in Germany in 1981. According to him, this experience is proof of the quality of the education system and discipline the country possesses.
Furthermore, Prabowo revealed that the roots of the relationship between Indonesia and Germany are actually much deeper than the age of official diplomatic ties. The contribution of German academics in introducing Indonesia to the international world had already begun even before the proclamation of independence.
Concluding his remarks, President Prabowo expressed hope that this visit would become a momentum to strengthen cooperation amidst global uncertainty. He wished good health for President Steinmeier and Mrs. Elke Büdenbender, as well as prosperity for the people of both nations.
“I hope that the friendship and cooperation that have been established can continue to grow and bring benefits to both nations in the future,” he concluded.
The meeting discussed various strategic agendas, particularly strengthening cooperation in the fields of economy, investment, energy transition, energy security, education, and employment. President Prabowo requested President Steinmeier’s support to accelerate the finalisation of the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) in order to boost investment. According to Steinmeier, the foundation of bilateral relations has been strengthened since the Jakarta Declaration in 2012. President Prabowo also invited Germany to strengthen investment in critical minerals, rare earth elements, and semiconductors to support the energy transition.