Prabowo recalls US role in national independence, eyes stronger ties

President Prabowo recalled the United States’ role in supporting Indonesia’s war of independence from Dutch colonialism, describing it as a defining element in the bilateral relationship.

“At that time, we were fighting a war of independence to free ourselves from Dutch colonialism, and the US played a significant role in supporting us. Throughout the early history of our nation, we have always seen America assisting us in critical times,” Prabowo said in a voice recording received on Thursday.

He made the statement during his attendance at the Gala Iftar Dinner Business Summit in Washington DC on Wednesday local time.

Although Indonesia maintains a non-aligned foreign policy tradition, Prabowo stressed that it does not diminish Indonesia’s commitment to friendship with the US or other major countries.

He said Indonesia respects all major powers and strives to act as a bridge and “honest broker” amid global dynamics.

Prabowo also added that US support has become an inspiration for national leaders to teach younger generations not to forget friends who stood by during difficult times.

“There are friends who are only present when everything goes well, what you call ‘fair-weather friends.’ But this shows how old I am, as I still remember those tough times,” Prabowo added.

Building on this historic support, the President is optimistic that Indonesia-US relations will strengthen, especially ahead of the signing of a reciprocal trade agreement (ART), negotiations for which have been ongoing since 2025.

Prabowo said the agreement is expected to be a key driver of economic partnership and emphasised that important accords have been signed between government institutions and business actors, including measures addressing trade balance issues.

“I look forward to this trade agreement as a major boost for continuing economic partnership and cooperation between the US and Indonesia,” he stated.