Washington, D.C. Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met privately with CIA Director William J. Burns on November 12, 2024, during a series of high-level diplomatic engagements in Washington.
Burns was accompanied by Assistant Director Henry Kim and the CIA’s Jakarta Chief of Station Carlos, while Prabowo attended with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya.
This meeting marked an important step in reinforcing U.S.-Indonesia intelligence and security cooperation as the two nations celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations.
Earlier in the day, President Prabowo met with President Joe Biden, emphasizing Indonesia’s appreciation for the longstanding support from the United States. “The United States has been a strong ally to Indonesia, aiding us in our independence and stepping in during critical moments,” Prabowo stated, expressing his gratitude for Biden’s personal phone call congratulating him on his recent election.
Prabowo emphasized his commitment to strengthening ties with the U.S., reiterating Indonesia’s view of the United States as an important and enduring friend.
President Biden reflected on the deepening bond between the two nations, highlighting the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relationship and the critical role of their partnership.
“I am proud to say that our partnership is the strongest it has ever been, and today, we will discuss ways to continue building on this foundation,” Biden remarked.
Biden and Prabowo addressed several areas of strategic cooperation, with Biden specifically identifying a free and open Indo-Pacific as central to their shared interests. The U.S. aims to further support Indonesia’s transition to clean energy, with Indonesia playing an increasingly significant role in regional environmental and economic stability.
Biden stressed the importance of fostering secure and resilient supply chains, viewing Indonesia as a vital link in strengthening economic reliability across the region.
Both leaders acknowledged the necessity of a comprehensive strategic partnership, particularly in light of evolving security dynamics within Southeast Asia. Prabowo and Biden discussed collaborative efforts to tackle pressing global issues, including rising tensions in the South China Sea and the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
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Biden underscored the need for joint efforts to preserve peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region, signaling a commitment to strengthening security ties and enhancing mutual support.
The meeting between Burns and Prabowo represents the intelligence sector’s role in the U.S.-Indonesia partnership, especially in promoting regional stability and addressing complex global challenges. As the two leaders affirmed, the United States and Indonesia are committed to a dynamic and cooperative relationship that benefits both nations.
(Becky)
