#Beijing #Indonesia #APEC 2026 #BRICS #Indonesia-China

Indonesia's Strategic Partnership with China

In a significant move towards strengthening international relations, Indonesia has reaffirmed its support for China's hosting of the APEC summit in 2026. This development comes on the heels of President Prabowo Subianto's recent official visit to China on November 10, marking his first overseas trip since taking office. This trip not only emphasizes Indonesia's strengthening ties with China but also showcases Jakarta's ambition to advocate for the broader interests of the Global South, especially after joining the BRICS coalition.

Indonesia’s pivotal role in both APEC and G20 has been highlighted as the nation aims to foster collaboration among developing countries, particularly in light of emerging global challenges. Ambassador to China, Djauhari Oratmangun, expressed optimism regarding the future of Indonesia-China relations, proposing a vision for mutual growth and cooperation.

Key Takeaways from President Prabowo’s Visit

During his trip, President Prabowo engaged in discussions that addressed key areas of bilateral cooperation such as trade, investment, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges. China has been a dominant trade partner for Indonesia, showcasing significant economic interaction that saw Indonesian exports to China reach approximately $139.41 billion in 2023. As China continues to be the second-largest investor in Indonesia, the focus now shifts to enhancing investments in critical sectors such as fisheries, agriculture, and infrastructure to uplift people's living standards.

The Ambassador emphasized that this collaborative approach aligns closely with China’s Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). Each of these frameworks offers synergistic opportunities for Indonesia, underpinning its development strategies by advocating for sovereignty and equality under international law.

Indonesia's Aspirations within BRICS

Additionally, Indonesia’s application to join BRICS signals its desire for a wider platform to address shared global challenges. This multilateral forum not only allows Indonesia to diversify its partnerships but also to bolster its stature on the world stage, enabling a dialogue that prioritizes the interests of Global South nations. As Indonesia aims to promote a balanced global economy, its strategic alliances in BRICS could play a crucial role in amplifying its global influence amidst a polarized international landscape.

Future Expectations and Cooperation Areas

As Indonesia anticipates its involvement in APEC 2026, expectations are high that it will facilitate more inclusive economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region. The forum could serve as a platform for addressing critical issues like poverty alleviation, climate change, and sustainable development goals (SDGs) that directly affect developing nations.

The potential for APEC to become a bridge for broader consensus on regional connectivity cannot be understated. The cooperative frameworks advocated by Indonesia at the G20 also aim to set a precedent for future discussions at APEC, aligning with goals for an open, resilient, and peaceful community in the Asia-Pacific by 2040.

In conclusion, Indonesia stands poised to deepen its relationship with China while taking on a larger role in global economic governance through collaborative efforts. With ongoing diplomatic engagements, President Prabowo Subianto’s administration is committed to sustaining a favorable environment for dialogue and cooperation, which is paramount in an increasingly interconnected world. The path forward remains clear for both nations as they strive to enhance mutual understanding and socio-economic growth in the Global South.