Prabowo Calls Erdogan a Brother and Senior Leader during Bilateral Talks in Bogor
- VIVA.co.id/Rahmat Fatahillah Ilham
Bogor, VIVA – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto welcomed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on a state visit at the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java, on Wednesday (Feb 12).
During the bilateral meeting with the Turkish delegation, the Indonesian head of state expressed his admiration for Erdogan, describing him as a friend, a brother, and a senior leader.
He also conveyed his deep honor in hosting the Turkish delegation for this significant occasion.
"My respected and esteemed friend, my brother, the President of the Republic of Turkiye, His Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdogan, along with the honorable delegation of the Republic of Turkiye, I extend my warmest regards," President Prabowo said in Bogor Palace.
Prabowo admitted that he should have visited Turkiye first for an official state visit, acknowledging Erdogan as a senior leader.
"I should have been the one to make an official visit to Turkiye first, as President Erdogan is, in terms of service, a senior leader—an experienced and esteemed president. However, I am deeply grateful for Your Excellency’s presence here," he said.
This state visit also marks a significant milestone, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Turkiye.
"The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Türkiye. Furthermore, the bond between our nations has roots that stretch back to the era of the Ottoman Empire, fostering a profound connection between our peoples," Prabowo explained.
Presiden Prabowo menerima kunjungan kenegaraan Presiden Turki Erdogan
- Setpres
As a gesture of goodwill, President Prabowo presented Erdogan with symbolic gifts, including a firearm and a traditional Indonesian keris (dagger).
The firearm, a 5.56 x 46 mm assault rifle of the SS2-V4A2 type, is an Indonesian-made product manufactured by Pindad.
Alongside the rifle, Prabowo gifted Erdogan a traditional Balinese gegodohan keris, crafted with a silver hilt adorned with gold and ruby embellishments.
In response, President Erdogan reciprocated with meaningful gifts steeped in historical value.
The Turkish leader presented a white vase adorned with pink floral motifs and a calligraphy ornament featuring a poem.
The poem expressed prayers and gratitude from the Javanese people to Sultan Abdulmecid Khan, Governor Muhammad Hasib Pasha of Hejaz, and the Sheikhs of the Haram land.
