Indonesia Upholds Free and Active Foreign Policy: President Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasized that Indonesia will firmly adhere to the principle of a "free and active" foreign policy in building relations with countries around the world. He stated that Indonesia maintains an open stance, seeking friendship and cooperation with various nations, and has no intention of joining any specific blocs or powers. "So, Indonesia's stance traditionally, our view on international relations, is that we always want to be free and active. We have been non-aligned from the start, we do not want to join any blocs. Therefore, from one perspective, it can be said that we want to be friends with anyone," Prabowo said in the "President Prabowo Answers" program, quoted on Thursday (17/9/2026). According to Prabowo, this principle is also one of the reasons he accepts invitations from various countries. He mentioned having made several visits to numerous nations, ranging from Europe and Asia to the Middle East. He explained that these visits do not indicate Indonesia's alignment with any particular power. Instead, they are part of efforts to maintain good relations with countries holding significant global positions, including Russia. "The fact that Russia is among those who most often or rather often invite the Indonesian President, it would not be good if we didn't come when invited. But I can also say that I often go to France, I often go to the UK, I often go to Turkey, often to Arab countries, to Egypt, to the Emirates, to Qatar, also to China, to Japan," he said. Prabowo stated that as long as he receives an invitation and has the opportunity to attend, he strives to fulfill it, especially if it comes from a country with a strategic role in international affairs. Prabowo also explained the importance of Indonesia maintaining communication with Russia, citing its strategic position in international relations as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, its vast territory, and its significant natural resources. "Moreover, being invited by a key country in the world. Anyway, Russia is a member of the Security Council. Russia, in terms of territory, is the largest country in the world. And it has very large natural resources. And traditionally our relationship with Russia is good. So, I think it's just normal," he explained. He clarified that the same principle applies when Indonesia receives an invitation from the United States or other countries. For Prabowo, accepting invitations from friendly nations is part of diplomacy that maintains communication and good relationships. "But if I am invited, if I am invited to America, I will come. That's how it is, right? So, that's the point," he said. Read the latest and most trusted news at Berita Liputan6