Indonesian Minister of Defense Prabowo Subianto is set to meet Egyptian President el-Sisi at the D-8 summit in Cairo from December 17-19. Following the summit, he plans to engage with industry leaders before visiting Malaysia’s Prime Minister. Indonesia will assume chairmanship of the D-8 for 2026-2027, focusing on fostering economic cooperation.
Prabowo Subianto, the Indonesian Minister of Defense, is scheduled to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi during the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation summit taking place in Cairo from December 17 to 19. Prabowo emphasized the strategic significance of Egypt as a regional power and an essential partner for Indonesia in the Middle East, highlighting the importance of their upcoming discussions. After the summit, Prabowo plans to engage in informal meetings with key economic and industry figures in Cairo before traveling to Malaysia to meet Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Before departing from Jakarta’s Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, he confirmed that his presence at the summit would also include Indonesia receiving the chairmanship of the D-8 for the 2026-2027 period from Egypt. The Indonesian Foreign Ministry has indicated that this leadership transition aims to enhance the organization’s role in promoting cooperation among its members, particularly in relation to the Global South. Prabowo’s agenda reflects Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening ties with its regional partners and fostering economic collaboration.
The D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, established in 1997, includes eight countries: Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey, aiming to promote cooperation in economic and development matters among its members. The upcoming summit in Cairo represents a significant opportunity for leaders to discuss mutual interests and enhance regional partnerships. Additionally, Indonesia’s leadership role in the D-8 reflects its growing influence in international economic forums and its dedication to supporting the Global South.
In summary, Prabowo Subianto’s upcoming bilateral meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, alongside his participation in the D-8 summit, underscores Indonesia’s strategic engagement in the Middle East and the broader Global South. This meeting not only emphasizes bilateral ties but also highlights Indonesia’s commitment to enhancing economic cooperation within the D-8 framework.
Original Source: en.antaranews.com
