Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia After Bilateral Meeting with Secretary-General of the United Nations in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, November 17, 2024
Journalist:
Earlier, you began your visit [in Brazil] by meeting with the UN Secretary-General. What were the key points emphasized in that meeting?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto):
The UN Secretary-General greatly appreciated Indonesia’s stance on various issues, especially climate change. Indonesia strongly supports efforts to take steps to reduce carbon emissions. We have plans, and we have the ability to genuinely move toward renewable energy. We are very capable and have significant potential for renewable and green energy. So, we will rely on [renewable] energy sources such as geothermal, hydro, solar power, and especially plant-based energy, bioenergy, and biofuels. We are very supportive of these efforts.
He hoped that Indonesia continues, Indonesia plays a quite significant role, and he hoped that Indonesia continues to take a proactive stance and provide support. I assured him that we would support the UN’s stance and his principles. He also has strong principles on the issue of Palestine, advocating for international law and standing firmly on this matter.
Journalist:
To achieve these renewable energy targets, what steps will Indonesia take moving forward?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto):
We aim to achieve net zero emissions, and we are working towards that goal.
Journalist:
The Secretary-General, Antonio, mentioned that Indonesia is a strategic partner and that its presence is highly anticipated. Do you plan to always be present at key events like the UN General Assembly to show Indonesia’s global presence?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto):
We’ll see how things develop. Naturally, I am focused on improving the domestic economy in my first months and years in office. After my inauguration, the G20 and APEC [Summits] were going to take place, so I had to come. Since the G20 was held right after the APEC [Summit] and [the locations] were far, I had taken the opportunity to visit several other countries, such as China and the United States. I plan to visit the UK to discuss economic issues and explore potential investments. I also intend to visit some countries in the Middle East, but this depends on the schedule. Honestly, I want to return to Indonesia as soon as possible.
Journalist:
Regarding the G20, can you share a bit of Indonesia’s position? What will you convey tomorrow at the G20?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto):
We will continue to emphasize that the global economy depends heavily on stability. We will promote stability, encourage peace, and, most importantly, advocate the rule of law.
Thank you.
(AS/MMB)