Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has expressed optimism that establishing competitive direct shipping routes between Indonesia and Russia will significantly bolster bilateral trade.
Speaking at the 11th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok on Thursday, Prabowo stressed that these maritime routes must be underpinned by schedule certainty, transparent costs, reliable insurance, and consistent two-way cargo flow to build a robust logistics system for both nations.
“I believe that in this forum, we can establish competitive direct shipping between Vladivostok and Indonesia, characterized by predictable schedules, costs, insurance, and cargo flow in both directions,” Prabowo said.
In addition to maritime logistics, the Indonesian leader reiterated his proposal to launch direct air links between the two countries. He noted that direct flights would not only enhance broader connectivity but also stimulate tourism and foster stronger people-to-people relations.
“Direct air connectivity will bring Russian visitors to Indonesia and allow Indonesian travelers to experience the beauty of the Russian Far East. While ships move goods, airplanes move friendships,” Prabowo remarked.
Strengthening physical connectivity is crucial, he emphasized, as Jakarta and Moscow seek to maximize the benefits of the impending Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (Indonesia-EAEU FTA).
He noted that the Indonesian business delegation attending the forum was already preparing pilot shipments, sourcing buyers, securing logistics, and formulating payment mechanisms to fully leverage the trade pact.
Once the FTA tariffs take effect, the necessary goods, shipping routes, and trade contracts must already be in place, Prabowo stressed.
“The task before us is to transform personal trust into institutional trust, featuring clear regulations, reliable payment systems, predictable logistics, and agreements that endure beyond government transitions,” the president concluded.
Related news: Prabowo seeks to double Indonesia-Russia trade via I-EAEU FTA
Related news: Prabowo says Pacific must be bridge between Indonesia and Russia
Related news: Indonesia pushes stronger mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia
Translator: Maria Galuh, Uyu Liman
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2026