Indonesia and China pledge closer defence, energy ties

Indonesia and China have agreed to strengthen their military ties, as well as collaborate on minerals, energy, and technology, amid geopolitical tensions and economic challenges. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, alongside his defense counterpart, emphasized the importance of avoiding unilateralism and hegemony, which he claimed harm global cooperation and stability.

The two nations aim to cooperate across multiple domains, including artificial intelligence, defense, rail transport, green energy, satellites, and fisheries. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has advocated for a non-aligned foreign policy, expressing a willingness to work with both China and the United States, a key trade partner for Jakarta.

Both countries pledged to support each other's core interests and deepen cooperation in energy and mineral resources, with Indonesia being a significant exporter of nickel, tin, copper, gold, bauxite, and palm oil.

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun expressed optimism about the prospects for military cooperation, noting that it would become more effective and of higher quality, encompassing joint exercises, officer exchanges, and partnerships in the defense industry. Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin echoed these sentiments, stating that the development of Indonesia's defense capabilities is a significant step forward for the future.