Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto expressed his desire to strengthen relations with Japan during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Subianto, who is currently the defense minister, highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two countries and the need to further enhance their cooperative relationship. Japan has been actively seeking closer ties with Southeast Asian nations, particularly in terms of maritime security and defense, as a response to China’s growing military presence in the region.
Subianto’s visit to China, just before meeting with Kishida, emphasized Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining stable ties with Beijing amidst escalating tensions in the South China Sea. During his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Subianto reiterated Indonesia’s friendly policy towards China. China is Indonesia’s largest trading partner, with substantial investments in infrastructure projects. Indonesia has remained relatively neutral in the territorial disputes between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea.
Kishida welcomed Subianto’s visit to Tokyo, describing Japan and Indonesia as long-time friends sharing common values and principles. He expressed Japan’s interest in further strengthening cooperation with Indonesia on regional and global issues as comprehensive and strategic partners. Japan aims to contribute to Indonesia’s development in infrastructure and energy sectors while enhancing security and defense cooperation between the two nations.
Japan and Indonesia have been expanding joint exercises in the Indo-Pacific region, along with capacity building and educational programs to strengthen their defense cooperation. Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two maritime nations to establish a free and open Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law. The ministers vowed to enhance defense cooperation, reflecting the commitment of both countries to deepen their strategic partnership.
The meeting between Kishida and Subianto took place ahead of Kishida’s upcoming summit with U.S. President Joe Biden, where they are expected to discuss reinforcing security ties in the region. Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will also participate in the three-way talks, highlighting the importance of regional security cooperation among these countries. The discussions will likely focus on enhancing security collaboration to address shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
Overall, Indonesia’s President-elect Subianto’s engagements with Japan and China underscore the country’s commitment to maintaining positive relations with key regional players amidst escalating tensions and geopolitical shifts. By emphasizing cooperation in various areas, including defense, security, and economic development, Indonesia aims to strengthen its position in the region and contribute to promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
