Indonesia’s Strategic Deals with Russia, France to Boost Global Bargaining Power
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) has stated that the strategic agreements secured during President Prabowo Subianto’s recent visits to Russia and France are expected to significantly enhance Indonesia’s bargaining position on the global stage.
Indef Executive Director Esther Sri Astuti said on Thursday that the high-level engagements provided a crucial platform to strengthen cross-sector cooperation while unlocking new economic opportunities.
“This is crucial for strategic lobbying that opens up business opportunities, creates jobs, and improves Indonesia’s bargaining position,” she noted.
During his visit to France, President Prabowo held talks with Emmanuel Macron, resulting in a series of strategic agreements spanning business, investment, defense, and cultural cooperation. A key outcome included collaboration with Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund Danantara, with potential investments reportedly reaching tens of billions of US dollars.
In the defense sector, both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in the development of main weapon systems, a move expected to strengthen Indonesia’s defense capabilities while promoting technology transfer. The discussions also emphasized renewable energy cooperation, focusing on clean energy development and innovative technologies to support a sustainable transition.
Additionally, Indonesia and France reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining global stability and security, particularly in the strategically important Indo-Pacific region.
On the Russia front, President Prabowo’s visit to Moscow and his meeting with Vladimir Putin underscored expanding economic and energy cooperation. The talks highlighted Russia’s support for Indonesia’s accession to BRICS and explored opportunities for long-term collaboration in energy supplies, including crude oil and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said the visits yielded tangible results, noting that President Prabowo secured multiple strategic partnership agreements with both countries.
He added that the Indonesian leader also tasked Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to engage in detailed follow-up discussions with Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev and other officials to advance cooperation initiatives.
In Paris, further discussions between President Prabowo and President Macron covered expanded collaboration in energy, education, digital communications, and long-term investment.
Teddy emphasized that the outcomes of these visits reflect Indonesia’s growing global engagement, noting that partnerships with major powers such as Russia and France—both influential nations with vast resources—will contribute to strengthening Indonesia’s economic resilience and international standing.
