Brussels, Belgium – In a significant moment for Indo-European relations, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is set to embark on his maiden visit to the European Union headquarters in Brussels on July 12-13, 2025. This high-stakes diplomatic engagement marks an important milestone in Indonesia’s quest to strengthen its ties with the EU and address pressing global issues.
The visit, which takes place amidst a backdrop of evolving international dynamics, including rising trade tensions and pressing global challenges, is also seen as a turning point in negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Indonesia and the EU. The agreement, which has been under negotiation for nearly a decade, aims to promote mutual economic growth, trade, and investment between the two sides.
During his Brussels visit, President Prabowo is scheduled to engage in bilateral meetings with key EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa. The President will also meet with King Philippe of Belgium, fostering people-to-people connectivity between the two nations.
Indonesia’s agenda for the visit includes conveying its views on global issues such as geopolitical tensions, global governance reform, and the importance of inter-regional cooperation that respects each other’s sovereignty and national interests. President Prabowo is expected to push for a political agreement at the leader level, which would serve as a foundation for completing CEPA negotiations by September 2025.
Beyond economic ties, Indonesia will also highlight its priority issues, including achieving food and energy self-sufficiency, industrial transformation through downstreaming, and collaboration in research and innovation, particularly in the context of energy transition. The country aims to strengthen people-to-people connectivity, facilitated by ease of mobility, to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.
In a rapidly changing global landscape, Indonesia’s visit to Brussels underscores the importance of robust partnerships that address pressing global challenges. As the world navigates complex trade tensions, climate change, and security concerns, the Indo-European relationship has become increasingly crucial for promoting collective prosperity and stability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, President Prabowo’s visit to Brussels represents a significant moment in Indonesia-EU relations, highlighting the country’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the EU. As the world grapples with pressing global challenges, this diplomatic engagement serves as a reminder of the importance of collaborative efforts that promote mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation.