Indonesian leader: US spoiled the world, now nations must stand on their own

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto addressed the global economic shifts caused by the United States' "mutual" tariffs, saying that the US had spoiled the world and now nations would need to stand on their own.

Speaking on the impact of these tariffs, particularly on Indonesia's economy, Subianto expressed concerns about the significant consequences for industries such as textiles, footwear, sewing, and furniture, Caliber.Az reports, citing Indonesian media.

Subianto stated that these sectors would likely face serious challenges as a result of the new American trade policies.

"We will find a way out, we must dare to seek new markets. We’ve been too spoiled; we were attracted by the American economy because it’s the economic system America taught us — free market, globalization," he said.

"They taught us, and we were loyal students, following what we were taught. In the sixties, seventies, and eighties, we followed America; we were the most devoted. Now we’ll have to wake up, we’ll have to grow up. Not only us, but Europe, Asian countries, Australia — everyone. The situation has changed now," Subianto remarked.

The Indonesian leader, who has long been vocal about his country’s need for self-reliance, reflected on earlier statements he made before taking office. "I’ve been saying this for years, even before I became president. Back then, people thought it was just rhetoric," he noted.

"But no, I’ve known for a long time that one day, no one will help us but ourselves, that’s the reality. No one will help India, no one will help Vietnam, every country must take care of itself," Subianto added, emphasizing the need for nations, including Indonesia, to take charge of their own futures in the face of shifting global dynamics.

By Tamilla Hasanova