Presidential Communication Office (PCO) highlighted the positive outcomes of President Prabowo Subianto’s diplomatic missions to various countries. Through the signing of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and securing significant investment commitments from partner nations, the PCO emphasized the success of these missions. With 71 MoUs signed with 13 countries and investment commitments reaching close to IDR 800 trillion from four countries in less than a year, the PCO Senior Expert, Philips J. Vermonte, shared these achievements during a public discussion titled “The Fruits of President Prabowo’s Diplomatic Outreach on the Global Stage.” The event was hosted by GEMPITA at Retro Café, Beltway Office Park in Jakarta.
Vermonte also discussed Indonesia’s entry into BRICS as a strategic market expansion move in the face of global uncertainty. He clarified that Indonesia’s participation in BRICS was not a stance against the West or America but a step towards strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with major global powers. Referring to tangible outcomes like reduced U.S. import tariffs on Indonesian goods due to diplomatic efforts, he emphasized the importance of engagement in multilateral forums.
During the same event, Deputy Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno affirmed Indonesia’s commitment to further reducing tariffs and highlighted Indonesia’s position with the lowest tariff rate in ASEAN at 19%. He urged the public to avoid overreaction and base judgments on data rather than assumptions. Foreign policy, he emphasized, should be guided by national interests, not emotions. Through diplomatic discussions and negotiations, Indonesia aims to enhance its trade relations and maintain a balanced approach on the global stage.
