Historic Meeting: President Prabowo and President Biden Strengthen Indonesia-U.S. Strategic Partnership at the White House

Jakarta, INTI - On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, held a significant meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House in Washington, D.C. This meeting marks a historic milestone in the diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the United States, which have now spanned 75 years. The two leaders discussed a wide range of strategic issues to strengthen the comprehensive partnership between their countries, including economic cooperation, regional security, clean energy transition, and supply chain resilience.

President Prabowo’s arrival at the White House was formally greeted with full honors. Accompanied by an official delegation, he was welcomed by honor guards and a display of all the U.S. state flags, underscoring the United States’ deep respect for its friendship and strategic partnership with Indonesia. After the ceremonial welcome, President Prabowo entered the White House and signed the guest book in the Roosevelt Room, a tradition for heads of state on official visits to the United States.

Formal Meeting in the Oval Office

In the Oval Office, President Biden warmly greeted President Prabowo with a strong handshake, symbolizing the close friendship between the two nations. The meeting included high-ranking officials from both sides, reflecting the significance of this visit for Indonesia-U.S. relations. Representing Indonesia were Foreign Minister Sugiono and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, while the U.S. delegation included National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia Kamala Lakhdir, and several senior officials.

In his opening remarks, President Prabowo expressed his gratitude to President Biden for the invitation and acknowledged the U.S. support for Indonesia's independence as well as its role in maintaining a strong diplomatic relationship over the decades. "The United States is a very good friend to us. The U.S. has supported us since the early days of our independence struggle, and we are committed to strengthening this friendship," said President Prabowo.

Strengthening Economic Partnership: Trade Growth Goals

One of the main topics on the agenda was deepening economic ties between Indonesia and the United States. The two leaders agreed to boost bilateral trade, which reached USD 37.7 billion in 2023, an 8% increase from the previous year, according to data from Indonesia's Ministry of Trade. The new target is to reach USD 50 billion in the next five years. To achieve this, both countries committed to streamlining trade processes, enhancing mutual investments, and opening market access for Indonesian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The United States has long been a major trading partner for Indonesia, particularly in technology, healthcare, and energy sectors. Indonesia, in turn, is a key supplier of agricultural products, textiles, and electronics to the U.S. market. Through this strategic partnership, the trade relations between the two countries are expected to become stronger and more stable, creating new opportunities for Indonesian entrepreneurs in the American market.

Beyond trade in goods, foreign direct investment (FDI) from the United States to Indonesia is projected to grow by 15% by 2025, with renewable energy, healthcare, and technology being the key focus areas. To facilitate ongoing discussions, both nations plan to establish a joint economic task force to monitor progress and identify new opportunities for economic collaboration.

Maritime Security and Defense Cooperation

In terms of security, Presidents Prabowo and Biden agreed that regional stability in the Indo-Pacific is critical. Indonesia, with its strategic geographic location, plays an important role in safeguarding maritime security and international trade routes in the region. With a strengthened defense cooperation, the two nations plan to increase joint military exercises, naval patrols, and technology exchanges to ensure maritime security.

Beyond physical security, both countries are also focusing on cybersecurity. With the rising threat of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, Indonesia and the United States recognize the importance of collaborating to build a robust cybersecurity defense. Joint initiatives to strengthen cyber infrastructure are expected to enhance digital resilience and prevent cyber threats.

Clean Energy Transition and Environmental Sustainability

President Biden and President Prabowo also emphasized the importance of cooperation in the clean energy transition. The United States supports Indonesia, which aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2060, through technology assistance and funding for renewable energy projects. As a nation rich in natural resources, Indonesia has great potential to become a major player in renewable energy such as geothermal, solar, and wind. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Indonesia’s renewable energy sector is projected to create approximately 1.3 million jobs by 2030.

As a developing country with rapid economic growth, Indonesia faces significant challenges in balancing its energy needs with environmental commitments. Thus, this partnership with the United States in clean energy will accelerate Indonesia’s transition to renewable energy, while contributing to global efforts in reducing carbon emissions.

Commitment to Anti-Corruption and Government Transparency

During the meeting, President Prabowo affirmed Indonesia's commitment to transparency and anti-corruption efforts as a pillar of sustainable economic development. "Corruption undermines development and prosperity. We are committed to eradicating it for a stronger Indonesia," Prabowo said. This commitment was welcomed by the United States, which views anti-corruption as a key aspect of a healthy partnership.

Indonesia's anti-corruption reforms aim to create a more conducive business environment for foreign investors while strengthening Indonesia’s image as a transparent and reliable partner. The United States has pledged to support these initiatives through technical assistance and collaborative projects focused on government governance and institutional reforms.

Global Issues: Gaza and the South China Sea

Global geopolitical issues and challenges were also on the agenda for the two leaders. One of the topics discussed was the conflict in Gaza and the escalating dynamics in the South China Sea. President Biden acknowledged Indonesia's role as a moderate Muslim-majority country that could contribute to Middle East peace efforts. Regarding the South China Sea, both countries agreed on the importance of supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific, ensuring navigation rights, and promoting regional stability.

The Future of Indonesia-U.S. Relations

This bilateral meeting not only commemorates the 75-year diplomatic relationship between the two countries but also marks a step forward in strengthening their comprehensive strategic partnership. According to a recent Pew Research Center survey, over 70% of Indonesians view the United States as a vital partner in economic development and regional security. This public support forms a strong foundation for both nations to continue a mutually beneficial collaboration.

With the support of the people of Indonesia and the United States, and the commitment of the two leaders, the Indonesia-U.S. relationship is expected to bring lasting positive impacts for both nations and the Indo-Pacific region as a whole.