Jakarta, June 2, 2026 – The Europe Today: President Prabowo Subianto’s overseas engagements over the past one and a half years have generated significant economic, diplomatic and strategic benefits for Indonesia, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said on Monday, dismissing criticism that the visits were merely ceremonial.
According to a statement shared on the Cabinet Secretariat’s social media platforms, Teddy emphasized that the outcomes of the President’s international diplomacy should be assessed based on their tangible contributions to Indonesia’s national interests.
“It is completely wrong to say these visits are merely ceremonial. We need to look at what has been achieved over the past 1.5 years,” he said.
Highlighting key diplomatic achievements, Teddy noted that Indonesia’s accession to the BRICS bloc has helped strengthen energy security, supporting fuel supply stability and enabling the government to maintain subsidized fuel prices amid global disruptions.
He further stated that Indonesia had secured zero-percent tariffs for exports to 25 European countries starting in 2025, a development expected to enhance the country’s trade competitiveness and expand market access.
In the economic sphere, Teddy cited data from the Investment Coordinating Board showing that Indonesia attracted Rp2,430 trillion (approximately US$135.8 billion) in investment during the past 18 months. He added that President Prabowo’s recent visits to Japan and South Korea resulted in additional investment commitments totaling Rp575 trillion (around US$32.1 billion).
On defense cooperation, Teddy said Indonesia had expanded access to military equipment through partnerships with several countries, including France, the United States, Russia, China and the United Kingdom, strengthening the nation’s defense capabilities.
He also highlighted progress in Indonesia’s cooperation with Saudi Arabia, particularly in improving Hajj arrangements for Indonesian pilgrims. Discussions have included plans for the establishment of a dedicated Hajj village to facilitate services for pilgrims.
Regarding humanitarian diplomacy, Teddy said Indonesia has continued its support for the Palestinian people through aid shipments, hospital ships and scholarship programs for Palestinian students.
Responding to concerns about the cost of international travel, Teddy stated that President Prabowo personally bears any excess expenses related to overseas visits. He added that the size of presidential delegations has been significantly reduced to between 50 and 60 members to improve efficiency.
According to Teddy, all foreign visits and international meetings are undertaken based on urgent national priorities determined directly by the President and the Foreign Minister.
He urged the public to recognize the broader benefits of Indonesia’s diplomatic efforts and not overlook what he described as the government’s substantial achievements on the international stage.
