Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s first overseas trip after assuming office has brought a renewed focus on strengthening ties with China, Indonesia’s largest trading partner and key investor. During a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, Subianto emphasized Indonesia’s deep historical and cultural connections with China, highlighting their enduring partnership across multiple sectors.
Subianto’s visit underscores Indonesia’s commitment to boosting economic and diplomatic ties with China. Both leaders celebrated the success of joint projects, such as the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway and Southeast Asia’s largest floating solar power project, signaling a prosperous future of collaboration. Subianto announced over $10 billion in deals to be signed between Chinese companies and Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce, cementing the countries’ growing economic partnership.
In addition to economic cooperation, the two countries signed agreements on maritime safety and the development of fisheries and energy resources in overlapping maritime zones. These agreements are particularly significant as tensions in the South China Sea remain a sensitive issue, with China’s claims overlapping Indonesia’s exclusive economic zone. However, despite these tensions, Subianto has reiterated Indonesia’s neutral stance, maintaining strong relations with both China and the U.S., as evidenced by his planned visits to Washington and London.
Subianto’s visit also signals Indonesia’s more active foreign policy, with the country seeking full membership in the BRICS group. As Indonesia navigates complex geopolitical waters, its strong ties with China will likely play a crucial role in shaping its regional and global influence in the coming years.
In his first official trip, Subianto sets the stage for a new era of diplomatic engagement, balancing modernization with strategic partnerships in an increasingly interconnected world.
Image Credits: https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/chinese-indonesian-presidents-vow-to-further-strengthen-ties/3389272
