Unpacking the Indonesian President’s Trip to China

A demonstrator sets on fire a poster of Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto during a protest demanding police reform and the dissolution of the parliament, in Bandung, West Java on September 1, 2025. (Photo by Timur Matahari / AFP)

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto made a brief visit to China to join the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, even as protests simmered at home. The tightly scheduled visit was seen as a way of projecting stability abroad and reconnecting with key international partners.

The presidential spokesperson, Prasetyo Hadi, announced on Tuesday. “To maintain strong ties with China, the president agreed to travel tonight and return the next evening.” He said the president “reviewed the situation and received reports from all relevant agencies confirming that conditions are improving.”

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by CGSP Staff

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