HARIANEXPRESS – President Prabowo Subianto advocated for a shared economic future between Jakarta and Moscow, emphasizing his administration’s ‘realist, pragmatist’ approach to international cooperation. He expressed hope to host his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Indonesia.
Speaking at the 11th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on Thursday, September 3, 2026, Prabowo highlighted the importance of stronger ties between Eurasian and Southeast Asian nations. He views this as crucial for navigating an increasingly fragmented world, positioning Russia and Indonesia as natural partners and gateways to their respective regions.
Building Economic Alliances Amidst Global Fragmentation
Prabowo addressed the Russia-led forum, where he was a principal guest of honor, on the consequences of global fragmentation. He noted that suspicion affects supply chains and geography divides finance.
“Supply chains are withdrawn by suspicion. Finance is divided by geography. Precisely because the world is fragmenting, every bridge built here – in food, energy, science, logistics and trade – is a practical answer,”
The President reiterated Indonesia’s focus on economic partnerships rather than military ones. He underscored the goal of fostering prosperity for all through such collaborations.
“Indonesia does not want to join any military alliance, but we seek to join economic alliances. […] Not an alliance against anyone, but a partnership for the prosperity of everyone,”
This forum in Vladivostok served as a central point for Russia’s pivot towards Asia. Representatives from numerous countries convened to propose and initiate economic endeavors designed to bolster resilience and regional networks.
These efforts occur against a backdrop of a fracturing global order and Moscow’s increasing isolation from Western nations. The forum specifically highlighted the Northern Sea Route, a maritime corridor extending from the Barents Sea to the North Pacific, which Russia aims to establish as a new global shipping route.
Forging a South-South Trade Architecture
Representing Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Prabowo’s participation marked his fourth visit to Russia. He stressed the necessity for countries in both regions to act decisively in establishing a “South-South trade architecture.”
The Indonesian President identified Indonesia’s free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) as a significant platform. This agreement serves to bring the two regions closer together.
