President Prabowo Urges APEC Leaders to Rebuild Trust and Resist Fragmentation
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has called on leaders of Asia-Pacific nations to foster mutual trust and reject fragmentation during the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit held in Gyeongju, South Korea.
Speaking at the first session of the APEC Leaders’ Meeting on Friday, President Prabowo emphasized the urgent need for Asia-Pacific countries to overcome fatalism and take decisive actions to rebuild confidence across the region, warning that growing mistrust could threaten global economic stability.
“Tension and rising distrust could endanger global economic stability and deepen divisions among us. However, I believe the Asia-Pacific must not accept fragmentation as its fate,” he stated, as quoted in an official statement received in Jakarta.
Highlighting APEC’s founding principles, President Prabowo reminded participants that the organization was established on the vision of inclusive growth, solidarity, and multilateral cooperation. He urged member economies to reaffirm their commitment to maintaining an open, fair, and rules-based trading system underpinned by international law.
“It is time to renew our commitment to open, fair, and inclusive multilateral economic cooperation. Indonesia remains dedicated to upholding a rule-based multilateral trade system, with the WTO at its core, and to ensuring a level playing field for all,” he said.
The Indonesian leader cautioned that exclusivity in economic development could fuel fragmentation and instability, ultimately obstructing regional peace and prosperity. “Bearing that in mind, it is crucial that we position inclusiveness as our guiding force,” he added.
President Prabowo also urged APEC member economies to intensify joint efforts in combating transnational crimes, including smuggling, money laundering, and drug trafficking, describing these as major obstacles to sustainable development and long-term regional stability.
Concluding his remarks, he reiterated his appeal for all APEC leaders to restore trust and reinforce regional cooperation.
President Prabowo’s address closely aligned with the theme of the session, “Towards a More Connected, Resilient Region and Beyond,” which underscores the importance of enhancing regional connectivity, economic resilience, and cross-border collaboration for a more prosperous and united Asia-Pacific.
