Indonesia Neutrality Tested by Joint Naval Drill with China
Indonesia maintains a nonaligned foreign policy, but Jakarta's limited participation in exercise with China's navy near Taiwan has raised concerns.
On August 12, an Indonesian frigate briefly participated in a naval exercise with China's People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in waters near Taiwan's east coast. The Taiwanese government questioned Indonesia's involvement, requesting clarification from Jakarta. The Indonesian Navy described the maneuvers as a "passing exercise," stating that the vessel was returning from a trip to Vladivostok, Russia after collaborating with the Russian navy.
Taiwan considers Taiwan to be a Chinese territory and has frequently conducted military drills around the island, particularly since former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the self-ruled island in 2022. Indonesian and Taiwanese officials have differing opinions on the significance of the exercise, with Taiwan deeming it a provocation and Indonesia insisting it was routine diplomacy.
The incident has highlighted Indonesia's complex geopolitical position, as the country aims to maintain its non-aligned foreign policy while facing pressure from both superpowers.
Written by urgent.news from Tempo.co English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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