The incoming Indonesian President, Prabowo Subianto, expressed his intention to “further strengthen” relations with Japan during his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday. This meeting followed his recent visit to China.
Subianto, who currently serves as Indonesia’s defense minister, emphasized the longstanding friendship between Indonesia and Japan, highlighting their cooperative relationship. He expressed his hope to deepen these ties even further.
Japan has been actively seeking closer relationships with Southeast Asian nations, particularly in areas of maritime security and defense, amidst China’s growing military presence in the region.
Subianto’s decision to visit Beijing as his first official overseas trip after winning the February election underscores Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining stable relations with China amid tensions in the South China Sea. During his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Subianto reiterated Indonesia’s friendly policy towards China.
China holds a significant position as Indonesia’s largest trading partner, with substantial investments in key infrastructure projects. Despite tensions between China and the Philippines over territorial disputes in the South China Sea, Indonesia has maintained a relatively neutral stance.
Prime Minister Kishida welcomed Subianto’s early visit to Tokyo, emphasizing the shared values and principles between the two countries. He expressed Japan’s desire to strengthen cooperation with Indonesia on regional and global issues, considering them as “comprehensive and strategic partners.”
Japan aims to contribute to Indonesia’s development, particularly in infrastructure and energy sectors, while also enhancing collaboration in security and defense.
Subianto’s meeting with Kishida precedes the Japanese leader’s upcoming summit with U.S. President Joe Biden in Washington, where further discussions on reinforcing security ties are expected. This summit will also involve Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Additionally, Subianto held discussions with Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara, during which both ministers pledged to enhance defense cooperation. They discussed expanding joint exercises in the Indo-Pacific region and strengthening capacity-building and educational programs.
In conclusion, Indonesia and Japan are committed to deepening their relationship, especially in the context of regional security and development in the Indo-Pacific region. Both countries aim to work together towards a free and open Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law.
