Indonesia's New President Advocates for Cooperation with China Before U.S. Visit

Monday 11 November 2024 - 09:35

BEIJING (AP) — Indonesia's newly inaugurated president emphasized the importance of collaboration with China, rather than conflict, following the signing of $10 billion in business deals at a forum in Beijing on Sunday. This comes as he embarks on his first overseas trip since taking office three weeks ago, with a planned visit to the United States next.

President Prabowo Subianto expressed Indonesia’s desire to contribute to China's rise as not only an economic powerhouse but also a leader in global civilization. He stated, "In this modern era, collaboration, not confrontation, is the path to peace and prosperity."

Subianto's remarks marked the conclusion of his visit to China. He will continue his trip to Washington, where tensions over China’s growing influence are high, before heading to Peru and Brazil for key summits, including the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the G20.

During his trip, Subianto and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to enhance bilateral relations, with security now being recognized as the fifth key area of cooperation, alongside political, economic, maritime, and people-to-people exchanges. A joint statement confirmed plans to hold the first-ever foreign and defense ministerial meeting between the two countries in 2025.

Subianto reiterated Indonesia's longstanding policy of nonalignment, emphasizing respect for all major global powers. Despite Indonesia's avoidance of direct involvement in territorial disputes between China and Southeast Asian nations over the South China Sea, it has recently taken a more assertive stance. Indonesian patrol ships have driven Chinese vessels away from waters where Indonesia is conducting energy exploration.

China has made significant investments in Indonesia, including in the mining sector and the construction of the nation's first high-speed rail line, which connects Jakarta and Bandung. However, the influx of affordable Chinese products has hurt local industries, particularly garment manufacturers, leading to factory closures and calls for import tariffs. The Indonesian government is seeking a delicate balance between protecting domestic industries and maintaining a strong relationship with its largest trade partner.