RRI.CO.ID, Surabaya – Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with Airlangga University (Unair), held the Preliminary Discussion of the D-8 Youth Dialogue themed “Navigating Uncertainty, Building Resilience” in Surabaya on Wednesday. The event marked one of Indonesia’s achievements during its chairmanship of the Developing-8 (D-8) organization for the 2026–2027 period, focusing on energy security and food security amid global uncertainty.

Director General of Information and Public Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Heru H. Subolo, said Indonesia remains committed to strengthening D-8 cooperation despite the postponement of the D-8 Summit.

“Through activities that address shared challenges, Indonesia continues to promote stronger D-8 cooperation,” Heru said in his remarks.

He emphasized that collaboration among governments, academics, and experts is essential to generate perspectives, recommendations, and innovative, inclusive solutions to global challenges.

At the same event, Deputy for Foreign Policy Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs, Mohammad Koba, highlighted the importance of the D-8 amid current geopolitical dynamics characterized by the fragmentation of the global order, major power rivalry, and rising protectionism. According to him, the D-8 has a unique character as a cross-regional alliance within the Global South, encompassing South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

“The D-8 has the potential to become a middle-power group capable of serving as a balancing force amid global rivalries,” Mohammad Koba said.

Meanwhile, Airlangga University Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development, Muhammad Miftahussurur, encouraged higher education institutions not only to produce academic analyses but also to act as catalysts in implementing the recommendations generated through such discussions.

The event was attended by around 150 students from various universities in Surabaya, including Airlangga University (Unair), State University of Surabaya (UNESA), Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS), University of Surabaya (UBAYA), Surabaya State Polytechnic of Shipping, Ciputra University, Hang Tuah University, UIN Sunan Ampel, and UPN Veteran East Java.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the D-8 Youth Dialogue series reflects collective action driven by non-governmental sectors and young people, while also serving as a momentum to strengthen solidarity and integration in support of regional stability and global prosperity.