President Prabowo Subianto praised Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's leadership as the first female leader who masters key issues, after attending the 28th ASEAN-Japan Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He highlighted the long-standing ASEAN-Japan partnership as a sturdy anchor for peace in the Indo-Pacific region. Prabowo also urged stronger economic cooperation and energy transitions.
On Sunday (October 26, 2025), President Prabowo Subianto attended the 28th ASEAN-Japan Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, as part of the 47th ASEAN Summit plenary. Afterward, he praised Sanae Takaichi, who was inaugurated as Japan's first female Prime Minister on October 21, 2025. "(She) is Japan's first female Prime Minister. (Sanae Takaichi) masters the key issues," Prabowo said briefly to reporters via a video recording.
Prabowo expressed appreciation for Japan's support of ASEAN centrality and its commitment to peace, prosperity, and stability in the Indo-Pacific. This partnership has lasted over five decades. "ASEAN and Japan have long been partners in advancing peace, prosperity, and connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region. Amid a world increasingly full of uncertainties, our cooperation remains a sturdy anchor for regional peace and stability," he stated.
He emphasized strengthening inclusive economic cooperation through effective implementation of the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Prabowo also pushed for collaboration in the digital economy and financial connectivity. "Now is the time to realize our shared principles through meaningful cooperation that truly benefits our people. Economic relations between ASEAN and Japan continue to grow and adapt to the dynamics of the times," he added.
Additionally, Prabowo highlighted energy transition as a strategic priority, welcoming Japan's partnership in clean energy such as hydrogen and electric mobility. He stressed the importance of human-centered partnerships, including youth exchanges and academic cooperation. Closing his remarks, Prabowo invited ASEAN and Japanese countries to uphold the spirit of the 1955 Bandung Asia-Africa Conference for peaceful and inclusive cooperation. "Together, we can shape a stable, resilient, and prosperous region for all," he concluded.