Putin conveyed this view during a discussion with President Director of ANTARA News Agency, Akhmad Munir, in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on Thursday, ahead of his meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
“Indonesia is growing very rapidly. Very rapidly,” he told Munir while highlighting the country’s massive population of around 280 million.
According to Putin, Indonesia and several other developing nations are driving radical changes in the world through their rapidly growing populations and economies.
He affirmed that these countries will certainly strive to elevate their citizens' living standards through advancements in the economy, science, and education—placing them, especially Indonesia, on track to becoming major global economic players.
On bilateral relations, Putin emphasized that Indonesia and Russia have enjoyed decades of harmonious relations built on mutual respect.
He also expressed eagerness to engage President Prabowo in talks to explore avenues for expanding bilateral cooperation.
Putin made the remarks during a limited meeting with leaders of international news agencies held on the sidelines of the 19th General Assembly of the Organization of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA).
Representing Indonesia’s ANTARA, Munir described the meeting as dynamic and productive.
“We obtained much information from President Putin on various geopolitical issues, including the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Iran conflicts,” he remarked after the meeting.
He affirmed that the meeting served as Putin’s channel for fostering ties with foreign media outlets while articulating Russia’s stance on global issues.
Munir also expressed ANTARA’s appreciation for the valuable opportunity to speak with the Russian president during President Prabowo’s ongoing visit.
President Prabowo and President Putin are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting and state luncheon at the Constantine Palace in Saint Petersburg on Thursday.
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Translator: Rangga P, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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