Putin Calls Indonesia a Strategic Trade Partner, Backs Energy and BRICS+ Ties
Main Takeaways
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JAKARTA, Investortrust.id — Russian President Vladimir Putin has described Indonesia as one of Russia’s most important trade partners in Southeast Asia, citing a 40% surge in bilateral trade over the first four months of 2025.
“Indonesia is one of Russia’s main trading partners in Southeast Asia. Last year, our trade volume reached $4.3 billion. In the past four months alone, trade has grown by 40%,” Putin said in a joint press statement with President Prabowo Subianto at the Konstantinovsky Palace in St. Petersburg on Thursday, June 19.
According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade, the country’s exports to Russia rose 112.7% year-on-year between January and April 2025, totaling $684 million. Meanwhile, imports from Russia climbed 70% to $1.2 billion during the same period, leaving Indonesia with a trade deficit of $518 million—widening by 34.5% compared to the same period last year.
The top Indonesian exports to Russia included animal and vegetable oils (HS 15) at $321.8 million, inorganic chemicals (HS 28) at $153 million, cocoa products (HS 18) at $44 million, and coffee, tea, and spices (HS 09) at $24 million. The latter category recorded a dramatic 5,108% surge year-on-year.
On the import side, crude oil (HS 27) dominated with a value of $803.9 million, followed by fertilizers (HS 31) at $223.7 million. These figures underscore the centrality of energy and agriculture to bilateral trade, with Putin stating that Russia is ready to expand its supply of both commodities to Indonesia.
BRICS+ and Energy Projects Highlight Deepening Strategic Ties
Putin also welcomed Indonesia’s recent accession to BRICS+, calling it a testament to the country’s global stature.
“Indonesia is a respected and influential country on the world stage. I am confident it will contribute significantly to BRICS+ cooperation,” he said.
The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Russia and Indonesia. Putin underscored shared values such as respect for sovereignty and mutual support in global forums.
Economic and energy cooperation dominated the bilateral agenda. Putin confirmed Russia’s readiness to increase energy exports to Indonesia, including natural gas and oil. He pointed to ongoing projects such as the Rosneft-Pertamina refinery and petrochemical complex in East Java as a foundation for further collaboration.
“We are open to joining new offshore projects and modernizing Indonesia’s aging oil fields,” he said.
He also expressed interest in expanding nuclear cooperation with Indonesia in areas such as health, agriculture, and human capital development.
Cultural Exchange and Education Boost People-to-People Links
Beyond trade and energy, Putin highlighted Russia’s cultural and educational engagement with Indonesia. A Russian cultural center in Jakarta has hosted various performances and exhibitions over the past six years. Language centers have also opened in Jakarta and Bali.
“We are cooperating in staff training. More than 500 Indonesians are currently studying in Russia,” Putin said.
President Prabowo described the talks as “intense and productive,” noting significant progress in areas ranging from trade and investment to agriculture and technical cooperation.