Indonesia and UK Enter New Phase of Strategic Cooperation

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia and the United Kingdom marked a new chapter in their bilateral relations as President Prabowo Subianto met Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the second time, holding high-level talks at 10 Downing Street, London, on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

The meeting aimed to formalize strategic and economic partnerships while exploring fresh opportunities in key sectors. This latest engagement followed their first encounter at the same venue on November 21, 2024, and formed part of President Prabowo’s official working visit to the UK.

Arriving in his signature black peci and grey suit, President Prabowo was welcomed by Prime Minister Starmer at the entrance of Downing Street. The two leaders exchanged brief remarks, shook hands, and posed for photographs.

In a lighter moment, the prime minister’s official cat, Larry, approached President Prabowo, drawing attention from PM Starmer and the press corps.

After the welcome, the leaders proceeded to the second-floor meeting room, where discussions centered on strengthening cooperation.

PM Starmer expressed appreciation for the close ties that have developed between the two nations, while President Prabowo highlighted collaboration in the maritime sector and education, including partnerships with the Russell Group of universities. He noted his satisfaction at the growing number of strategic opportunities emerging between Indonesia and the UK.

Commenting on the visit, Head of International Relations at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Lina Alexandra, described the trip as significant for deepening bilateral ties and diversifying Indonesia’s international partnerships.

However, she stressed the importance of tangible results. “What we are waiting to see is what the real implementation will look like on the ground, because at this stage it is still about signing,” Lina said in Jakarta on Tuesday, January 20, as quoted by Antara.

“We expect a clearer pattern. When deepening relations through a strategic partnership or comprehensive strategic partnership, or focusing on specific areas of cooperation, we want to see the rationale. Why this country? Why this specific area?” Lina added.

Regarding the launch of the Strategic Partnership, Lina suggested that cooperation in developing the semiconductor industry may be part of the agenda, aligning with Indonesia’s national strategic programs.

She noted that while such initiatives appear designed to support key government priorities, questions remain among domestic business actors about the pace and feasibility of implementation. ***