President Prabowo Hails President Ramaphosa’s Visit as Key Milestone in Indonesia–South Africa Bilateral Ties

President Prabowo officially welcomes the state visit of President of the Republic of South Africa, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday (10/22). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

President Prabowo Subianto expressed high appreciation for the state visit of the President of the Republic of South Africa, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, to Indonesia. In a press statement after the bilateral meeting at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday (10/22), President Prabowo emphasized that the visit marked an important milestone in strengthening the friendship and strategic partnership between the two countries.

“First of all, once again, I would like to thank President Ramaphosa and his delegation for the great honor of visiting Indonesia. Today, we view South Africa as a very important leader in the world and we share many historical similarities, a long struggle against colonialism, and a fight for freedom,” said President Prabowo.

President Prabowo stated that Indonesia and South Africa share a long history in the struggle against colonialism as well as in upholding independence and justice. The Head of State expressed his admiration for the strength, idealism, and courage of the South African people in fighting for freedom from the apartheid system.

“We admire the strength, idealism, and courage of the South African people’s struggle against injustice and apartheid. Therefore, I believe this visit is an important milestone in our relations,” said President Prabowo.

On that occasion, President Prabowo explained that the bilateral discussion with President Ramaphosa was productive, especially in the economic sector. The two countries recorded significant growth in trade over the past five years, but there is still vast potential to expand and balance the trade value.

“We would like to take steps to possibly establish a preferential trade agreement or a comprehensive economic partnership agreement in this time of international economic uncertainty,” stated President Prabowo.

Besides the economy, President Prabowo emphasized the importance of accelerating the implementation of the defense cooperation agreement signed in 2023. Cooperation in agriculture, energy, science, and education also became the focus of both leaders.

“We will send an Indonesian delegation, as requested by the South African President, possibly if we can send a technical team, a technical delegation to discuss concrete programs in key sectors that can advance rapidly,” said the President.

Furthermore, the Head of State expressed his support for South Africa’s presidency of the G20 in 2025 and confirmed his attendance at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg next month. President Prabowo expressed belief that South Africa’s leadership in the G20 will play a significant role in promoting a more inclusive and equitable global economic order.

“We are confident that South Africa’s leadership will advance towards a more inclusive and just global economic order,” said the President.

Concluding his press statement, President Prabowo once again conveyed his gratitude and appreciation for the visit and the growing friendship between the two countries. The Head of State also affirmed Indonesia’s steadfast commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership with South Africa in the future.

“Once again, I would like to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation for your visit, for the friendship, solidarity, and cooperation that continue to grow between Indonesia and South Africa. We are committed to advancing our strategic partnership with South Africa,” he concluded. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (AS/MUR)