Strengthening Ties and Navigating Regional Dynamics
Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Tokyo on April 3rd, 2023. This meeting, following Subianto's visit to China, highlighted Indonesia's efforts to balance its relationships with both regional powers.
Subianto emphasized the long-standing friendship and cooperation between Indonesia and Japan, expressing his desire to further strengthen this relationship. This aligns with Japan's strategy of forging closer ties with Southeast Asian nations, particularly in maritime security and defense, amidst China's growing military presence.
Subianto's first official overseas trip after his election victory was to Beijing, underscoring Indonesia's commitment to maintaining stable relations with China despite tensions in the South China Sea. During his meeting with President Xi Jinping, Subianto pledged continued friendly relations with China.
China is Indonesia's largest trading partner, and Beijing has invested heavily in major infrastructure projects within the country. Indonesia has maintained a neutral stance amidst rising tensions between China and the Philippines over territorial claims in the South China Sea.
Kishida welcomed Subianto's visit to Tokyo, acknowledging the shared values and principles between the two nations. He expressed Japan's desire to further strengthen cooperation on regional and global issues as "comprehensive and strategic partners."
Japan aims to contribute to Indonesia's development in areas like infrastructure and energy, while also enhancing cooperation in security and defense. This meeting comes just before Kishida's trip to Washington for a summit with President Biden and a trilateral meeting with Philippine President Marcos Jr., where discussions on bolstering security ties are expected.
Subianto also held talks with Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara, where they pledged to enhance defense cooperation. This includes expanding joint exercises in the Indo-Pacific region, as well as capacity building and educational programs.
Kihara emphasized his commitment to strengthening cooperation between the two maritime nations to achieve a "free and open Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law." This reflects the shared concerns of both countries regarding China's assertive actions in the region.
Subianto's visit to Japan demonstrates Indonesia's strategic approach to navigating the complex regional dynamics. While maintaining close ties with China, Indonesia also seeks to strengthen its partnership with Japan, a key player in promoting a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.