Indonesia Strengthens France Ties as Prabowo Reaffirms Non-Aligned Policy

Jakarta – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto granted an exclusive interview to French media outlet Atlantico during his working visit to Paris from May 26–29, 2026. While remaining committed to Indonesia’s long-standing Non-Aligned doctrine amid an increasingly unstable global landscape, Prabowo emphasized the need for balanced diplomacy among Washington, Beijing, and Moscow, alongside a stronger strategic partnership with France.

France is one of the few Western nations that has openly established a strategic partnership with Indonesia, covering defense cooperation, Indo-Pacific collaboration, and its status as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. It is also viewed in Jakarta as one of Europe’s relatively independent powers.

Speaking to journalist Jean-Sebastien Ferjou, Prabowo outlined Indonesia’s reasons for strengthening ties with France rather than aligning more closely with the United States or China. He stressed that Indonesia’s foreign policy is guided by its Constitution, which mandates the defense of freedom and peace.

“France shares these values. That is why we support France’s efforts to advance the recognition of Palestine as an independent state. For the first time, thanks to the persistence of French-Saudi diplomacy, 157 countries now recognize Palestine as a sovereign state,” Prabowo said.

When asked about the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Prabowo acknowledged that Indonesia’s stance is being tested in real terms. He reaffirmed that as a Non-Aligned country, Indonesia offers itself as a neutral mediator with no agenda other than promoting peace and stability.

“We have offered mediation not only in the Israel–US–Iran tensions, but also in the Russia–Ukraine conflict. Regarding Iran specifically, we are working alongside Pakistan, which is geographically closer to the situation. Its Prime Minister has even proposed traveling to Tehran with me if necessary,” he said.

Addressing concerns over a potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran—which has sparked ideas from Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to impose transit fees in the Malacca Strait—Prabowo underscored Indonesia’s commitment to international law. He noted that Indonesia’s status as an archipelagic state is rooted in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“Freedom of navigation is a fundamental right enshrined in the convention, and it must be upheld under all circumstances. However, rules are meaningless without the means to enforce them. This is why Indonesia is strengthening its naval, air, and land forces—not to threaten others, but to ensure the capacity to uphold a rules-based order. Power cannot replace the law,” Prabowo stated.

On the possibility of China taking action against Taiwan, Prabowo offered a firm response. “I have said this openly, and I repeat it here: Indonesia supports the One China policy, and we believe Beijing has been—and will remain—rational regarding Taiwan,” he said.

When asked about the roles of Moscow and Beijing in the Ukraine invasion, Prabowo declined to comment in detail, maintaining Indonesia’s principle of non-interference.

“We do not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries. We believe Moscow and Beijing are rational actors that prioritize the interests of their people, and that their primary objective is to ensure lasting peace and freedom,” he added.

Indonesianpost.com | Republika