Prabowo Says Indonesia Has Not Forgotten Egypt’s Support for Its Independence

President Prabowo Subianto affirmed Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening and expanding bilateral relations with Egypt. Speaking to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Prabowo said Egypt was the first country to recognise Indonesia’s independence.

“Indonesia and Egypt have a long-standing relationship, and we are determined to continue expanding and improving it. We have not forgotten Egypt’s support during Indonesia’s struggle for independence against colonial rule, in our war of independence from 1945 to 1949,” Prabowo said during a joint statement at the Merdeka Palace.

Prabowo also called for practical cooperation that would benefit both countries. He said the two sides continued to discuss and intensify collaboration in strategic areas including the economy, trade, investment, education, science and technology, maritime affairs, fisheries and defence.

“Today’s meeting will further deepen cooperation between our two countries and also contribute to peace, stability and prosperity in the region,” he said.

Prabowo highlighted Egypt’s important role in the Islamic world and the Arab region. He said the two countries’ shared history and close people-to-people ties were an important foundation for strengthening their friendship.

“Historically, we attach great importance to Egypt’s role in the Islamic world and the Arab world. So please believe that, Your Excellency, when you come to Indonesia, you are among family,” Prabowo said.

In his opening remarks, Prabowo warmly welcomed President El-Sisi and the Egyptian delegation. He expressed his appreciation for the visit and recalled the warm reception he received during his visits to Egypt in 2024 and 2025.

“I would like to say welcome to Jakarta, to Indonesia, to my brother, President El-Sisi, and the entire Egyptian delegation. Thank you for the honour shown to me and my delegation when I visited Egypt in 2024 and 2025,” Prabowo said.