Prabowo reaffirms Indonesia's non-aligned stance

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that Indonesia will continue to adhere to its free and active foreign policy by maintaining a non-aligned position amidst increasing global geopolitical tensions. In a speech during a meeting with members of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) from across the country at the State Palace in Jakarta on Friday, President Prabowo stated that Indonesia inherits the foreign policy principles of the nation’s founders, which do not side with any specific bloc or military pact.

According to Prabowo, this principle remains the foundation of Indonesian diplomacy to this day. “We are grateful that our country possesses a legacy from our nation’s founders. That legacy is a non-aligned foreign policy; we do not wish to join any military bloc,” said President Prabowo.

The Head of State emphasised that since the beginning of his administration, he has prioritised a policy of making Indonesia a ‘good neighbour’ to all nations. President Prabowo acknowledged that several border issues faced by Southeast Asian nations are legacies of the colonial era. However, the President stressed that all such issues must be resolved through dialogue and peaceful means.

While acknowledging that the dispute resolution process is not always easy due to the competing interests of various parties, President Prabowo asserted that Indonesia must prioritise wisdom and avoid being easily provoked. “I am aware that Indonesia is the largest nation, therefore we must be wiser, we must be more patient, and we must not be provoked. That is what we have inherited: non-alignment,” said Prabowo.

Prabowo also reaffirmed Indonesia’s neutral position in establishing relations with various major powers. According to Prabowo, a neutral stance and maintaining good relations with all nations are part of Indonesia’s strategy to maintain regional stability and support the creation of peace amidst a global situation still characterised by various conflicts and uncertainties.