Prabowo: If Trump Invites Me to the US, Do I Dare Refuse?

President Prabowo Subianto has defended his frequent overseas travel, stating that numerous invitations from foreign leaders are a consequence of Indonesia's positive international standing. He highlighted that as a non-aligned nation, Indonesia maintains good relationships with many countries, making its president a sought-after visitor.

Prabowo recounted receiving invitations from 18 ambassadors during a credentialing ceremony in June 2026, humorously noting the logistical challenge of visiting so many nations. He emphasized that Indonesia's global engagement is crucial for maintaining diplomatic ties, especially given its membership in international organizations like APEC, OIC, BRICS, and G20.

Addressing critics who question the frequency of his foreign trips, Prabowo dismissed them as people who think they are "smarter than everyone else." He asserted that his international visits are always aimed at defending the interests of the Indonesian people. He also pointed out that some invitations are impossible to decline, citing a hypothetical invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump as an example. "If President Trump invites me to America, do I dare not come?" he challenged, suggesting that refusing such an invitation would be unthinkable.

Prabowo further explained that accepting an invitation from a superpower like the U.S. necessitates accepting similar invitations from other major powers, such as Russia, China, and India, due to their significant global influence and large populations. He also mentioned India's large market and advanced technology, and Brazil's similar standing, as reasons for maintaining strong ties. The president's remarks come after figures like Dino Patti Djalal, founder of the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia, suggested Prabowo reduce his foreign travel, noting that the president spends one out of every six days abroad.