Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto recently met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Tokyo to discuss the strengthening of ties between Indonesia and Japan. Subianto, who also serves as the current defense minister, highlighted the historical friendship and cooperative relationship shared by the two nations while expressing his desire to further enhance these connections. This meeting follows Subianto's visit to China, where he emphasized the importance of maintaining steady ties amidst tensions in the South China Sea.
During the meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida, Subianto underscored the significance of maintaining friendly relations with China, Indonesia's largest trading partner. He expressed a commitment to a continued amicable policy towards China and maintaining neutrality in the face of rising tensions in the South China Sea. In response, Kishida welcomed Subianto's visit to Tokyo, emphasizing the shared values and principles between Japan and Indonesia and expressing a desire to deepen cooperation in various regional and global issues.
The discussions between Subianto and Kishida also touched upon areas of development cooperation, with Japan expressing its willingness to contribute to Indonesia's infrastructure and energy sectors. Both leaders recognized the importance of cooperation in security and defense, with Japan expressing its commitment to strengthen defense cooperation with Indonesia. Additionally, both countries are expanding joint exercises in the Indo-Pacific region and engaging in capacity-building initiatives to achieve a free and open Indo-Pacific region based on the rule of law.