Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has embarked on a significant diplomatic mission, traveling to Cairo, Egypt, for the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation summit scheduled from December 17 to 19, 2024. This visit marks Indonesia's first official representation at the summit since 2013 and is aimed at strengthening Indonesia’s strategic ties with Egypt, which Prabowo describes as a "close friend and important country in the Middle East."
Before his departure from Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, Jakarta, Prabowo confirmed, "I will hold a bilateral meeting with the president of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi." This meeting is particularly significant, as it highlights Egypt’s regional influence and Indonesia’s commitment to fostering partnerships within the Middle East. Prabowo emphasized the importance of the upcoming discussions, stating, “Egypt is our close friend, our strategic partner, and important country in the Middle East,” as reported by Reuters.
The D-8, established back in 1997, is composed of eight developing nations: Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey. This summit will facilitate discussions on cooperation among these nations, especially as Indonesia is set to assume the D-8's chairmanship starting January 1, 2026. Prabowo affirmed, "Hence, I will attend the summit. And after, I will hold informal meetings with several economic and industry figures."
Notably, the president will not only participate in the summit but also engage with various economic leaders to explore prospects for industrial collaboration. "Indonesia will utilize the presence of the president to... increase cooperation," pointed out Roy Soemirat from the Indonesian Foreign Ministry prior to the event, highlighting the significance of the summit as both a regional gathering and a mechanism for Indonesia to assert its influence.
After his engagements in Egypt, Prabowo plans to visit Malaysia to meet with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, enhancing bilateral relations following the summit. This additional stop after the D-8 meeting reveals Prabowo's broader strategy of cementing Indonesia's diplomatic relations within Southeast Asia and beyond. He stated, "I will also stop by Malaysia to meet Prime Minister (Datuk Seri) Anwar Ibrahim,” as he prepares to venture from Egypt after the summit.
With this visit, Prabowo will be representing Indonesia at what many perceive as a pivotal moment for the D-8 — particularly as the chairmanship changes hands from Egypt to Indonesia. Prabowo’s leadership during this transition reflects Indonesia’s commitment to fostering closer ties among developing nations and promoting mutual economic benefits.
Earlier this year, Indonesia's foreign policy under Prabowo has been characterized by non-alignment and inclusivity, focusing on cooperation rather than confrontation. His diplomatic approach has led him to visit over 20 countries—including major powers like China, the United States, and Russia—demonstrated by his efforts to balance relations between global giants and regional partners alike. This extensive travel signals his aspiration to position Indonesia as a prominent player on the world stage.
Despite the challenges facing many developing countries, Prabowo believes the D-8 summit symbolizes hope and collaboration. "Given the current situation, I believe the D-8 summit is significant, which is why I am attending," he noted, emphasizing the need for unity among developing countries to bolster economic resilience and political stability.
These strategic engagements come at a time when Indonesia seeks to establish itself as a leader among its peers, challenging conventional geopolitical narratives and advocating for the Global South. Through his participation at the D-8 summit and discussions with key leaders like el-Sisi and Ibrahim, Prabowo aims to not only reinforce existing partnerships but also explore new avenues for economic cooperation.
Overall, President Prabowo's diplomatic endeavors during this trip encapsulate Indonesia's proactive approach to international relations under his leadership. The D-8 summit stands as both a stage for significant negotiations and opportunities for fostering enduring partnerships among developing nations, laying the groundwork for Indonesia's future role as a pivotal player within this collective.
The outcome of these discussions and the networks formed could very well set the tone for Indonesia's diplomatic strategies going forward, illustrating how international diplomacy and domestic politics remain intertwined under President Prabowo’s vision. The results of these meetings will undoubtedly resonate beyond the confines of the summit, shaping Indonesia’s economic and political aspirations on the world stage.
