Indonesia Trusted as Mediator Between Russia and EU, Hashim Says Prabowo to Deliver Message to Putin
Main Takeaways
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PARIS, Investortrust.id — Indonesia has been formally requested by the European Union to serve as a neutral mediator in the ongoing geopolitical tensions with Russia, according to Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) and CEO of Arsari Group.
Speaking at the France-Indonesia Business Dialogue in Paris on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, Hashim revealed that the EU had sent a direct message to President Prabowo Subianto, asking him to relay a communication to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“In recent days, the European Commission requested Indonesia’s President to mediate between the EU and Russia,” Hashim told the forum, which was attended by prominent French and Indonesian business leaders. He added that President Prabowo plans to deliver the EU's message to Putin in an upcoming visit.
A Unique Position of Trust
Hashim emphasized that the mediation request stemmed from a deep trust in Indonesia’s neutrality and long-standing relationships with both Russia and the EU.
“President Putin knows Indonesia has no hidden agenda. Since the 1950s, we have been a reliable partner for the Russian people. At the same time, our ties with the EU are longstanding and strong,” he said.
This dual alignment, Hashim added, reflects Indonesia’s broader foreign policy strategy under President Prabowo—one that is open, inclusive, and firmly non-aligned.
Indonesia as a Safe Haven
Highlighting Indonesia’s credibility as a peace broker, Hashim pointed to the coexistence of thousands of Russian and Ukrainian nationals in Bali, despite their countries being at war.
“There are about 150,000 Russians and 25,000 Ukrainians in Bali. They live peacefully, socialize, and show no signs of conflict. This is living proof that Indonesia is a safe, neutral place where diversity coexists,” he said.
Hashim asserted that Indonesia is one of the few nations without external enemies, a rare quality that boosts its standing as a reliable partner in diplomacy, commerce, and regional stability.
A Diplomatic and Economic Bridge
With global powers increasingly at odds, Hashim said Indonesia’s unique status offers opportunities for deeper partnerships—particularly with nations like France.
“Indonesia is not only Southeast Asia’s rising economic power but also a trusted diplomatic actor that can bridge global interests,” he said.
He encouraged French businesses and policymakers to strengthen strategic ties with Indonesia, capitalizing on its growing influence and commitment to international peace and cooperation.