Prabowo: I Consider Korea as Indonesia's Close Friend
President Prabowo Subianto has stated that South Korea is a close friend of Indonesia. Today, Prabowo met with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung in bilateral discussions at Cheong Wa Dae, also known as the Blue House—the presidential palace of the Republic of Korea.
In his opening remarks, Prabowo emphasised that his first state visit to South Korea reflects Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening the established partnership. For the Head of State, the visit to the Land of Ginseng is significant. “I consider Korea as Indonesia’s close friend and I want to enhance this cooperation,” said Prabowo, as quoted from the Presidential Secretariat’s statement.
Prabowo highlighted that long-term relations between countries are inseparable from various dynamics, including potential differences in perspectives. Nevertheless, he views openness and honesty as key to maintaining constructive relations.
According to the Chairman of the Gerindra Party, Indonesia and the Republic of Korea share common interests, particularly as Pacific nations oriented towards trade. “We need good relations for the economic welfare of both our countries, and perhaps we have complementary roles,” he said.
Prabowo opined that South Korea’s progress in industry, science, and technology can synergise with Indonesia’s strengths in abundant natural resources and a large market.
In addition to economic aspects, Prabowo also stated the importance of cooperation in maintaining stability and peace. “My state visit here takes place amid a world situation full of uncertainty and danger. Therefore, relations between countries like Indonesia and the Republic of Korea become increasingly important,” he said.
He hopes the partnership between Indonesia and the Republic of Korea will be elevated to a more comprehensive level. He encouraged ministers from both countries to immediately work on realising the enhancement of such cooperation. “Let us ask our ministers to strive to achieve this higher role,” he said.
Prabowo Subianto arrived at the Blue House in Korea to meet President Lee Jae-myung on Wednesday morning local time. The Presidential Secretariat’s live broadcast showed the state welcome ceremony for Prabowo.
President Lee was seen waiting for the arrival of President Prabowo and his entourage. When the black car carrying Prabowo arrived, Lee immediately greeted him. The two national leaders shook hands and embraced.
Presidents Prabowo and Lee then followed the state welcome procession. In the ceremony, the national anthems of both countries, Aegukga and Indonesia Raya, were played. The procession continued with a troop inspection and the introduction of official delegations from both countries.
After the welcome ceremony, President Prabowo carried out the agenda of signing the state guest book and a photo session with President Lee Jae-myung. The meeting then proceeded in a tête-à-tête format, or one-on-one discussion, before continuing with a bilateral meeting involving delegations from each country.