President Prabowo Brings Bandung Spirit to 18th BRICS Summit

President Prabowo Subianto brought the spirit of Global South unity to the 2026 BRICS Summit.

During a limited session adopting the theme “Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism” at Bharat Mandapam, a convention center in New Delhi, India, on Saturday (09/12), President Prabowo highlighted an Indonesian proverb to underscore the importance of togetherness in facing global challenges.

“There is an old proverb in Indonesia, ‘Bersatu kita teguh, terpecah kita runtuh’ (United we stand, divided we fall),” he said before the leaders of BRICS member states.

According to the President, the proverb is more than a saying about unity. Instead, it reflects the spirit that has united Asian and African countries for decades in the fight to stand equally, determine their own future, and fight for shared interests.

“This simple local wisdom reflects the spirit that united countries in the Global South, countries from Asia and Africa, several decades ago in Bandung,” he said, adding that it remains relevant in this era, as the Global South countries share historical experience in fighting for independence from imperialism and colonialism.

“In the Global South, we feel our voices heard. Countries that only recently gained their independence, that fought against imperialism and colonialism, now unite as equals,” he said.

The President further stressed that unity brings more power to the Global South to voice their interests, adding that standing together can amplify their voices and strengthen the ability to maintain and fight for their respective interests.

“We understand that by being united, our voices can be better heard. Our interests can be more protected and prioritized. This remains a very important lesson,” he said. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (DH/AW)