Bali – Timor Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao praised Indonesia’s president-elect, Prabowo Subianto, despite their past differences during historic conflicts.

Gusmao expressed his admiration during his keynote speech at the High-Level Plenary Session of the 2024 High-Level Forum on Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships (HLF MSP) in Bali on Monday, September 2.

Gusmao stated that Prabowo will be an exceptional president and congratulated him on his victory in the 2024 election. He remarked that Prabowo’s election reflects the trust the Indonesian people have in his leadership and vision for the country.

“His remarkable victory shows the trust that the people of Indonesia have in his leadership and vision for Indonesia,” said Gusmao.

“I am confident he will be an extraordinary president,” he added.

Gusmao also commended Indonesia for conducting a successful and smooth electoral process, noting that it further solidifies Indonesia’s position as one of the world’s greatest democracies.

“The successful conduct of the election reinforces Indonesia’s position as one of the greatest democracies in the world,” Gusmao stated.

Gusmao and Prabowo share a long and complex history. The two were once on opposite sides during the East Timor conflict in the 1990s, with Prabowo, then an active military officer, having captured Gusmao.

However, their relationship has since evolved into one of mutual respect. Gusmao has repeatedly offered his congratulations to Prabowo on his election victory and the mandate he received from the Indonesian people to lead the country.

In early April 2024, Gusmao expressed his joy through a letter to Prabowo. He described Prabowo as an extraordinary figure and expressed confidence that Prabowo would become a significant regional and global leader.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of Timor Leste, I am pleased to extend my congratulations on your election as the President of Indonesia,” Gusmao wrote at the time.

Gusmao acknowledged Indonesia’s central role in advancing cooperation, tolerance, and peace amid global tensions. He also expressed his belief that under Prabowo’s leadership, Indonesia would become an economic force driving growth and prosperity in the region. (RR)