Press Statement (Doorstop) of President of the Republic of Indonesia After Visiting the Residence of the 7th President of the Republic of Indonesia in Sumber District Surakarta City, Central Java Province, Sunday, July 20th, 2025

Journalist
Sir, what activities did you do inside earlier?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto)
I just returned from an overseas visit. It seems that the former President was following the news as well. I shared breakthroughs we recently achieved, especially with the European Union. After ten years of negotiations, we finally made a breakthrough. Then, I discussed meetings in Brazil with BRICS members, as well as discussions in France, London, where I met several officials, and also with President Trump.

Alhamdulillah, we achieved satisfactory results.

I also stopped in Belarus. They have potash resources, and they need our rubber and other commodities. Interestingly, global cocoa prices are currently very high, and many countries are expecting cocoa supplies from us.

However, we must immediately start new cocoa seedling programs and rejuvenation efforts. We are initiating this as he price for cocoa is significantly increasing worldwide due to outbreaks in Latin America and Africa that have damaged many cocoa trees.

That is all I can share.

Journalist
What was the response from Jokowi, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto)
The former President has been following the developments closely, as he started some of these efforts—such as the EU negotiations, which have taken ten years. Therefore, he understands how challenging it is. Given the current global uncertainties, the European Union and Indonesia are interested in agreeing swiftly.

Alhamdulillah, I consider it an honor for Indonesia. For example, I was received at the European Union on a Sunday. For Western Europeans, Sunday is sacred and typically a non-working day. Yet, they made an extraordinary exception to receive me.

I was received by President of the European Commission and President of the European Union Council, which consists of heads of government from 27 member states. Both leaders were very receptive and supportive.

Furthermore, the King of Belgium also welcomed me on Sunday afternoon at his palace in Brussels. He returned to the city specifically to receive me.
Sometimes, it can be exhausting traveling abroad frequently, but these matters require direct, personal engagement among leaders to build understanding and trust. This engagement facilitates smooth progress.

Indonesia continues its tradition as a non-aligned country. We are known for not siding with any bloc.

We participate in BRICS for economic interests, while also applying for membership in the OECD, which is led by Western developed countries. We have joined the CPTPP, led by Japan and others, and the IPEF (Indo-Pacific Economic Framework), led by pro-West countries. Therefore, all parties genuinely accept Indonesia.

Indonesia remains neutral, respects all countries, seeks friendship with all nations, and does not interfere in any country’s internal affairs. This stance has enabled our acceptance globally.

Although it can be exhausting to constantly receive invitations and requests such as “Please, Indonesia,” we are also expected to contribute to various international developments.

That is my view.

Journalist
Sir, regarding this meeting, did Jokowi host you for a dinner?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto)
Thank you.
I am about to attend the PSI Congress.

(EST/EP)