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Indonesia, China boost maritime cooperation amid tensions in South China Sea
2025-04-21 17:45:29 / BOTA
Indonesia and China have pledged to increase their cooperation in the maritime field, with a particular focus on security and maintaining stability in the South China Sea, amid Jakarta's growing concerns about Chinese activities near the Natuna Islands.
The commitment was confirmed during the first joint meeting of the foreign and defense ministers of the two countries in Beijing, where the need to cooperate in infrastructure development, the exploitation of natural resources and the strengthening of maritime security measures was emphasized.
The statements came at a time when Chinese fishing boats, often accompanied by coast guards, have been seen operating inside Indonesia's exclusive economic zone - including near the sensitive Natuna island chain.
Although both sides avoided direct mention of this area, it remains a flashpoint in relations between the two countries, due to China's overlapping claims, included in its "nine-dash" map.
In response to these tensions, Indonesia has increased its military presence and patrols in the region, and recently signed a memorandum of understanding with China to formalize cooperation in the field of maritime security.
China has meanwhile stressed its willingness to strengthen law enforcement and combat transnational crime, while the parties have also agreed to organize joint counter-terrorism exercises within this year.
Despite tensions, economic relations between the two countries are expanding further.
China has become Indonesia's largest trading partner and a major investor in strategic projects such as the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway and the floating solar power plant in West Java.
China's Belt and Road Initiative continues to attract Indonesian interest, although discussions over costs and timelines have fueled internal debate.
While China seeks to manage maritime disputes bilaterally to avoid international pressure, Indonesian officials emphasize that maintaining peace and security in the region is in the common interest.
According to Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono, cooperation against threats such as terrorism, extremism and cybercrime is as important as maritime issues.
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