Prabowo Subianto Shares Chinese Proverb in Beijing: “A Thousand Friends Are Too Few”
Beijing – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto captivated attendees at the 2024 Indonesia-China Business Forum in Beijing on Sunday (November 10, 2024) by sharing a Chinese proverb, “A thousand friends are too few, one enemy is too many,” in Mandarin.
Prabowo noted that he has learned much from Chinese philosophers, embracing the principle of fostering friendship over rivalry. Speaking first in English and then in Mandarin, Prabowo recited, “One of my guiding principles is, ‘A thousand friends are too few, one enemy is too many,’ or yīqiān gè péngyǒu tài shǎo, yīgè dírén tài duō.” His use of Mandarin drew applause from the forum’s participants.
The forum, organized by the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s China Committee (KIKT), also celebrated the signing of multiple cooperation agreements between Indonesian and Chinese companies.
Prabowo emphasized that this collaboration would strengthen regional cooperation and set an example of peace-driven partnerships.
We must show that in this modern era, collaboration, not confrontation, is the path to peace. Indonesia remains firmly non-aligned, always respecting major powers around the world,” Prabowo stated.
He expressed confidence that collaboration and partnership would pave the way for mutual understanding, peace, and prosperity.
“Let us work together to foster understanding, bring peace, and prosperity to our people and the entire region of Asia and the world,” Prabowo said, adding his hope for a long-lasting relationship between Indonesia and China.
Indonesia remains open to investments from China, with the newly signed agreements valued at $10.07 billion, spanning sectors such as advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and finance.
“This is substantial. We welcome more investments and are committed to creating a supportive environment and facilities for such partnerships,” Prabowo concluded. (RR)