Indonesia’s Prabowo Heads to Russia as Guest of Honour at Eastern Economic Forum
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has travelled to Vladivostok, Russia, to attend the 11th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) as the event’s chief guest, highlighting the growing importance of Indonesia–Russia relations and Jakarta’s expanding engagement with the Asia-Pacific region.
Prabowo departed Jakarta late on September 1, 2026, accompanied by a limited delegation, according to Indonesia’s Ministry of State Secretariat. Russian President Vladimir Putin specifically invited Prabowo to attend the forum as its main guest of honour.
Invitation highlights closer bilateral ties
Indonesia’s Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said Prabowo’s participation reflects increasingly close relations between Indonesia and Russia.
He described the invitation as a sign of direct diplomatic engagement between the two countries’ leaders and said Indonesia’s participation also demonstrates Jakarta’s increasingly important position in the Asia-Pacific and wider international arena.
Eastern Economic Forum brings regional leaders together
The Eastern Economic Forum is held in Vladivostok and focuses on economic development and cooperation in Russia’s Far East.
The forum provides a platform for governments, businesses and investors to discuss trade, investment, infrastructure and regional economic opportunities.
Prabowo’s presence gives Indonesia an opportunity to strengthen economic and diplomatic contacts with Russia and other participating countries.
Indonesia looks to expand economic opportunities
Indonesia has been seeking to broaden international economic partnerships, particularly in areas such as trade, investment, energy and industrial cooperation.
Participation in the EEF could provide Indonesian officials and businesses with opportunities to explore projects connected with Russia’s Far Eastern region and the wider Asia-Pacific economy.
Broader diplomatic engagement
Prabowo’s visit comes as Indonesia continues to expand its diplomatic engagement with major powers and regional partners.
Jakarta has maintained a policy of developing economic and political relationships across different regions while seeking greater participation in international affairs.
The Russian invitation also gives Indonesia an opportunity to discuss bilateral cooperation directly with senior Russian officials.
Visit could strengthen Indonesia-Russia relations
The presence of Indonesia’s president as guest of honour is likely to give additional momentum to bilateral discussions.
While the EEF is primarily focused on economic issues, the visit also carries broader diplomatic significance for both countries.
For Indonesia, closer engagement with Russia could open additional opportunities for trade and investment, while Moscow gains an opportunity to strengthen ties with one of Southeast Asia’s largest economies.
Prabowo’s participation therefore represents an important diplomatic and economic engagement between Jakarta and Moscow at a time when regional cooperation across the Asia-Pacific is becoming increasingly significant.
