Foreign Diplomacy in the Era of President Prabowo Subianto: Following in the Footsteps of Prof. Sumitro Djojohadikusumo
The foreign diplomacy of Indonesia under President Prabowo Subianto is expected to be influenced by the strategies of his father, Prof. Sumitro Djojohadikusumo. Known for his expertise in economics and diplomacy, Prof. Sumitro was a key figure in Indonesia’s diplomatic history.
One notable example of Prof. Sumitro’s diplomatic acumen was his plea to the U.S. Government in 1948, as detailed in a New York Times article. At the age of 31, he successfully urged the U.S. to stop providing funds to the Netherlands for military operations in Indonesia, following its proclamation of independence in 1945.
This episode showcased Prof. Sumitro’s skill in narrative and negotiation, as well as his ability to leverage international connections. His efforts led to the cessation of aid to the Netherlands, forcing them to negotiate with Indonesia and ultimately recognize its independence.
President Sukarno recognized Prof. Sumitro’s talents and appointed him as Indonesia’s Ambassador to the United States at the age of 33. The success of Prof. Sumitro’s approach demonstrated the power of narrative and kinship diplomacy in securing Indonesia’s sovereignty.
President Prabowo Subianto is expected to continue in this tradition, drawing on his father’s legacy to shape Indonesia’s foreign relations in the present era.
