Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto will meet with Egyptian President el-Sisi during the D-8 Summit in Cairo, representing Indonesia to assume chairmanship for 2026-2027. He aims to engage in discussions with economic leaders and visit Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim after the summit.
Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi during the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation summit in Cairo, Egypt, taking place from December 17 to 19. During a press briefing at the Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in Jakarta, Mr. Prabowo underscored the importance of this meeting, given Egypt’s role as a key regional power and a strategic partner for Indonesia in the Middle East. He also expressed intentions to engage informally with various economic and industry leaders and to visit Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim following the summit.
Before departing for Egypt, Mr. Prabowo confirmed that he would represent Indonesia at the D-8 Summit, where he is set to accept the chairmanship baton for the years 2026 to 2027 from Egypt. The Indonesian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Rolliansyah Soemirat, highlighted that President Prabowo’s presence would be instrumental in enhancing the D-8’s contributions to the Global South and in promoting increased cooperation among member nations. After addressing the summit, Mr. Prabowo plans to participate in several unofficial discussions aimed at fostering economic collaboration.
The D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, founded in 1997, is an alliance of eight developing countries: Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey. The organization aims to promote the interests of its member states in the global economy, particularly those of the Global South. The upcoming summit in Cairo represents a significant opportunity for Indonesia to solidify its leadership role within the D-8, particularly as it prepares to take over the chair for the 2026-2027 term.
In conclusion, Prabowo Subianto’s imminent meetings with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim are pivotal for Indonesia’s diplomatic efforts in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The D-8 Summit serves as a strategic platform for Indonesia to assert its influence and promote cooperative initiatives among developing nations.
Original Source: en.antaranews.com
