Prabowo Subianto Weighs Ties with Trump or China
- The newly-inaugurated president is on the verge of making critical foreign policy decisions.
- Historical ties between Prabowo Subianto and U.S. officials hint at potential diplomatic strategies.
- The decisions made will greatly impact Indonesia's future relationships with global powers.
On November 7, 2024, Indonesia's new president faces crucial foreign policy decisions as he embarks on his first international trips. Historical context reveals that in 1985, American officials anticipated the rise of Prabowo Subianto as a potential leader following Suharto's regime. U.S. engagements with Prabowo aimed to ensure Indonesia maintained an anti-communist stance. As Indonesia's political landscape evolves, Prabowo's choices will significantly influence Indonesia's international alignments, notably with the United States or China. His past association and military training in the U.S. may foster a strategic alignment with the West, while recent ties to China could suggest a shift toward Asia. This dilemma underscores the complexity of Indonesia's geopolitical identity and the implications for regional stability.