Prabowo Subianto, President of the Republic of Indonesia, reiterated Indonesia’s firm dedication to maintaining a non-aligned foreign policy stance despite the escalating complexities of global geopolitics. Speaking at the 2025 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Prabowo acknowledged the challenges of upholding a non-bloc position in today’s volatile international landscape. He emphasized Indonesia’s respect for all major powers and regional neighbors, highlighting the importance of collaboration and peaceful coexistence for achieving shared prosperity. Prabowo expressed his belief that cooperation and mutual understanding are essential in navigating the increasingly interconnected world, cautioning against unproductive global rivalries that could lead to confrontation.
Indonesia’s foreign policy doctrine of “bebas dan aktif” (“independent and active”) was reinforced by Prabowo’s statements, underscoring the country’s commitment to forging partnerships with all nations while steering clear of military alliances or bloc politics. This commitment is particularly significant as Indonesia continues to play a growing role on the global stage, exemplified by its recent inclusion in BRICS, showcasing its strategic balance between engagement and autonomy in a polarized world. These remarks from Prabowo reflect Indonesia’s enduring stance on maintaining a non-aligned path amidst the evolving landscape of international relations, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy, cooperation, and assertive independence in navigating complex global dynamics.