Press Statement of the President of the Republic of Indonesia after the Meeting with the United States Secretary of Defense, in Washington DC, United States, November 13, 2024

Journalist
How was your meeting with US SecDef, sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto)
We have a good relationship. He and I have worked together for a long time. We discussed current issues and cooperation between the two countries, as well as exchanged information and views. I think that’s the highlight [of the discussion].

Journalist
Sir, regarding yesterday’s meeting with US President Joe Biden who supported Indonesia for joining the OECD. What is Indonesia’s stance since Indonesia also wants to join BRICS; as we are all aware these two are different organizations, sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto)
I don’t think there is a problem. We also participate in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement to Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and several other economic groups since we want to find the best opportunities for our economy. We have to think about the welfare of our people, right?

Journalist
Did you and Biden discuss Gaza and the South China Sea?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto)
Definitely. I still recommended the two-state solution. Actually, they also agreed. We are working on it. We hope to reach a ceasefire soon. We also discussed the South China Sea. I told him that we desire to cooperate with all parties. We respect all powers, but we will also continue to defend our sovereignty. Nevertheless, I prefer to seek a chance for collaboration. I believe collaboration and cooperation should be prioritized over confrontation or conflict. Of course, this must be attempted; it will not come by itself; there must be an effort to build trust and respect. So we choose to maintain good relations with all parties. Okay.

Thank you.

(GWH/MMB)