JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, has emphasized the nation’s decision to join global economic blocs, including BRICS and the OECD, as part of a strategic effort to prioritize national interests. The announcement was delivered by Hasan Nasbi, Head of the Presidential Communications Office, during a press briefing at the Presidential Office in Jakarta on Monday.

“President Prabowo stated that while Indonesia will not align with any defense bloc, we will participate in economic blocs that benefit our nation,” Hasan explained. This policy reflects Indonesia’s commitment to safeguarding its economic sovereignty while exploring opportunities for global collaboration.

Indonesia is currently pursuing membership in various economic alliances, including BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, as well as the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Additionally, Indonesia has expressed interest in joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), signaling a multifaceted approach to global economic integration.

The government hopes that joining these economic blocs will deliver substantial economic benefits for Indonesia. “Our goal is to align with blocs that can offer maximum economic advantages for the country,” Hasan added, underlining the strategic nature of this decision.

President Prabowo’s administration has demonstrated a proactive stance toward global economic engagement since taking office. Within just four days of his inauguration, he dispatched Foreign Minister Sugiono to the BRICS Plus Summit in Kazan, Russia, where Indonesia formally expressed its interest in joining the bloc.

The pursuit of OECD membership is not new; it dates back to the previous administration. On March 29, 2024, Indonesia initiated its accession process after the OECD Council approved a roadmap for membership, underscoring the nation’s long-term commitment to international economic collaboration.

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