Putin Hails Indonesia as Russia's 'Trusted Friend' in ASEAN
Putin Hails Indonesia as Russia’s ‘Trusted Friend’ in ASEAN
Reporter
September 3, 2026 | 02:12 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed Indonesia as one of Russia’s key partners in the Asia-Pacific region as well as a trusted friend of Russia within the framework of the ASEAN bloc.
“Indonesia is one of Russia’s key partners in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Putin during a luncheon with President Prabowo Subianto in Vladivostok, Russia, Thursday.
Putin first thanked President Prabowo for agreeing to visit Vladivostok and attend the 11th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) as the main guest of honor.
“This is the second time we have met and I am very happy. Our personal relationship reflects the strategic nature of bilateral relations between Russia and Indonesia. I would like to thank the President for his willingness to visit the city of Vladivostok and take part in the Eastern Economic Forum as the main guest of honor,” he said.
Putin said Russia and Indonesia have maintained friendly relations for many years and continue to develop bilateral cooperation, including trade partnerships.
He said trade volume between the two countries rose 12 percent last year, in addition to the ongoing Russian-Indonesian Joint Commission.
“Jakarta and Indonesia are one of Russia’s trusted friends within the ASEAN framework,” said Putin.
Both countries also cooperate across various international platforms, including the United Nations (UN).
Apart from trade, Putin said Russia is eager to foster partnership with Indonesia in the fields of agriculture, shipbuilding, digital technology and energy, especially nuclear energy.
Putin also underscored the signing of a free trade agreement between Indonesia and the Eurasian Economic Union.
“I am confident that today’s meeting will result in a new impetus to bilateral relations between our two countries,” Putin said.
It is known that President Prabowo paid a working visit to Vladivostok, Russia, to attend the 11th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) which will take place on 1-4 September 2026. President Prabowo attended as the main guest of honor.
During the visit, President Prabowo is scheduled to attend the main EEF summit and hold a bilateral meeting with President Putin.
EEF is a forum for Russia to strengthen economic cooperation with countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including through trade, investment and energy cooperation.
President Prabowo’s visit is also part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between Indonesia and Russia, especially in the economic sector.
Read: Prabowo Apologizes for Missing Russia-ASEAN Summit
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