Vietnam — After completing his activities at Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN), Indonesia’s Minister of Defense and President-elect Prabowo Subianto traveled to Hanoi, Vietnam, to meet with President of Vietnam, H.E. Tô Lâm, on Friday, September 13.

Prabowo arrived at Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi, at around 4:15 PM local time and was warmly welcomed by Vietnam’s Deputy Foreign Minister, H.E. Do Hung Viet, Vietnam’s Ambassador to Indonesia, H.E. Ta Van Thong, Director-General of the Southeast Asia, South Asia, and South Pacific Department, Mr. Nguyễn Tất Thành, and Indonesian Defense Attaché to Vietnam, Colonel Dian Tri Hutanto.

Following his arrival, Prabowo and President Tô Lâm shared a dinner and held a bilateral meeting. Prabowo expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and conveyed greetings from Indonesian President Joko Widodo.

“Mr. President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, I want to thank you for welcoming me today, and I bring warm greetings from President Joko Widodo,” said Prabowo.

Prabowo also congratulated Vietnam on its 79th Independence Day, celebrated on September 2, 2024, and wished continued success for the country.

“I also want to extend my congratulations to you and the people of Vietnam on the 79th Independence Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. I wish you continued success in building Vietnam,” Prabowo remarked.

During the meeting, Prabowo emphasized the close relationship between Indonesia and Vietnam, highlighting their strong friendship and commitment to enhancing cooperation in various sectors moving forward.

“For us, Vietnam is a great friend. We highly value this relationship, and I am committed to strengthening and expanding this cooperation. We also have a comprehensive strategic partnership that will continue to thrive,” Prabowo added.

At the end of the meeting, Prabowo introduced himself as Indonesia’s President-elect for 2024-2029 and extended an invitation to President Tô Lâm to attend his inauguration on October 20, 2024.

“Your Excellency, I have come here to introduce myself and inform you that I will be inaugurated as the next President of the Republic of Indonesia. If you have time, it would be a great honor for my people if you could attend the inauguration. Thank you very much,” Prabowo concluded. (RR)