Prabowo’s Attendance at China’s Victory Day Parade Seen as Strategic Diplomatic Signal

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s participation in China’s Victory Day military parade has been described as a strategic diplomatic gesture reflecting Beijing’s recognition of Indonesia’s pivotal role in Southeast Asia, a senior adviser said on Wednesday.

Darmansjah Djumala, a foreign affairs expert at Indonesia’s Pancasila Ideology Development Agency, stated that the visit demonstrates Jakarta’s commitment to maintaining balanced relations amid intensifying U.S.-China rivalry in the Indo-Pacific region.

“Indonesia’s presence should not be seen as favoring China over the United States,” Djumala emphasized in a statement from Pangkalpinang, Bangka Belitung Islands Province. “This is an example of our independent and active foreign policy — engaging with all sides without becoming entangled in great power conflicts.”

He further noted that Prabowo’s attendance could pave the way for expanded defense cooperation with China, complementing the countries’ already robust economic ties.

The parade, held in Beijing on Wednesday, commemorated the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan in World War II. According to China’s state news agency Xinhua, 26 heads of state and government attended, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and ASEAN leaders from Malaysia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.

Djumala described the parade as a symbolic display of China’s growing military power and a clear message that Beijing is asserting its influence in regional security. Chinese military official Wu Zeke said the event showcased new-generation military capabilities, including fourth-generation tanks, advanced fighter jets, unmanned systems, and hypersonic anti-ship missiles, underscoring the People’s Liberation Army’s readiness for global and regional challenges.

China’s Foreign Ministry had earlier confirmed that President Xi Jinping formally invited Prabowo to the commemoration. All four service branches of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), along with specialized forces, participated in the event.

President Prabowo departed Jakarta on Tuesday night, accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi said the president had postponed his departure, originally planned for August 31, due to domestic commitments, and is scheduled to return Wednesday evening.