State Visit to France Seen as Strategic Move, Here Are the Benefits

President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to France in May 2026 is not merely a routine diplomatic engagement but a calculated strategic step for Indonesia. Azis Subekti, a member of the House of Representatives from the Gerindra Party, emphasized that the trip is crucial for positioning Indonesia within the global Indo-Pacific economic and security framework.

Subekti drew parallels to historical turning points, such as the 1944 Bretton Woods Conference and European integration in the 1950s, suggesting that such seemingly ceremonial events can mark the beginning of significant global shifts. He believes Prabowo's visit to Paris should be understood in this context, as Indonesia seeks a more prominent role on the world stage during a period of major global transformation.

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The world is currently at one of the most important turning points since the end of the Cold War.

"The world is currently at one of the most important turning points since the end of the Cold War," Subekti stated. He highlighted the shift of economic gravity towards Asia, the increasing importance of technological competition, and the Indo-Pacific's central role in global trade. "In this situation, Indonesia cannot just be a spectator," he urged.

Indonesia possesses considerable assets for global influence, including a population exceeding 280 million, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, a strategic geographic location bridging the Indian and Pacific Oceans, and abundant strategic mineral reserves. Subekti asserted that President Prabowo's diplomacy demonstrates a clear objective: to broaden partnerships with various global powers without aligning exclusively with any single bloc.

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In this situation, Indonesia cannot just be a spectator.