President Prabowo Appoints Sugiono as Indonesia’s New Foreign Minister

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: President Prabowo Subianto has officially appointed Sugiono, the Deputy Chairperson of the Gerindra Party, as Indonesia’s new Foreign Minister, succeeding Retno Marsudi. The announcement was made on Sunday evening during the introduction of ministers, deputy ministers, and agency heads of Prabowo’s “Red and White Cabinet” at the State Palace in Jakarta.

In addition to Sugiono’s appointment, the President named three deputy foreign ministers to support him: Gelora Party politician Anis Matta, Indonesia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Arrmanatha Nasir, and the Indonesian Ambassador to Germany Arif Havas Oegroseno. Together, they will assist Sugiono in managing Indonesia’s foreign relations and strengthening the country’s global diplomatic efforts.

Sugiono, who previously served as Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives from 2019 to 2024, expressed his commitment to the role. “I am a soldier; whatever task is given to me, I will carry it out as well as possible with full responsibility,” he stated after meeting President Prabowo at his Jakarta residence on October 14.

Prior to his appointment, Sugiono was seen welcoming international dignitaries arriving for Prabowo’s inauguration. On October 19, he greeted the Special Envoy of the President of the United Arab Emirates, Nahyan bin Mubarak Al-Nahyan, at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

The “Red and White Cabinet,” introduced by Prabowo, consists of 53 ministries and government agencies. The President is set to formally inaugurate his newly appointed ministers, deputy ministers, and agency heads on Monday, October 21. This cabinet lineup is expected to play a crucial role in executing Prabowo’s vision for Indonesia during his presidency.