Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg this week to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation and strengthening the two countries’ strategic partnership. The meeting, announced by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, will take place during Russia’s annual economic summit, when President Putin traditionally delivers the keynote speech alongside a visiting foreign leader.
Following his meeting with Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi Sugiono in Moscow, Lavrov emphasised that both countries are looking to strengthen cooperation in key sectors like defence, maritime affairs, energy, and trade. He stated that Russia’s state nuclear energy business, Rosatom, is ready to assist Indonesia in constructing nuclear power infrastructure. There have also been calls for combined military drills.
Minister Sugiono highlighted the impending meeting as a clear representation of Indonesia’s perception of Russia as a key partner. He noted that President Prabowo and President Putin have a good personal rapport, which might help elevate bilateral relations to a full-fledged strategic cooperation.
Russia and Indonesia’s yearly trade volume is currently over $4.5 billion. Lavrov emphasised the necessity of expanding trade volume and investment prospects.
