Japan and Indonesia have agreed to bolster maritime security cooperation in response to China’s growing assertiveness in the South China Sea.
During a meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on January 11, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced that Tokyo would provide a high-speed patrol boat to the Indonesian navy under its Official Security Assistance program.
The leaders also committed to holding a two-plus-two meeting of their foreign and defense ministers by the end of the year, marking the first such talks since March 2021. This security framework, first established in 2015, was Japan’s inaugural defense dialogue with an ASEAN member.
Strategic Partnership and Shared Values
“Indonesia is a comprehensive and strategic partner that shares fundamental values and principles with Japan,” Ishiba stated at a joint news conference.
Prabowo, who took office in October, described Japan as a key partner, emphasizing that Ishiba’s visit underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthening cooperation across various sectors.
Japan views closer ties with Indonesia—a leading ASEAN member—as a way to counterbalance China’s maritime activities. Additionally, Tokyo hopes to bridge ASEAN and the United States, given regional concerns over the incoming Trump administration’s “America First” approach.
Defense and Economic Cooperation
Ishiba and Prabowo welcomed an agreement between their defense ministers on January 7 to launch a bilateral maritime security dialogue. They also confirmed plans to collaborate on defense equipment, technology, and personnel exchanges. One possibility under discussion is the joint development of a naval vessel based on Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyers.
Beyond security, the two nations pledged cooperation on resource management and infrastructure projects to support carbon reduction efforts in Asia.
Indonesia’s Balancing Act
Despite strengthening ties with Japan, Indonesia maintains significant economic relations with China. On January 6, Indonesia formally joined BRICS—a bloc that includes China, Russia, and other emerging economies—further reflecting its balanced foreign policy approach.
At the joint news conference, Prabowo reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to fostering positive relations with all major powers, aiming to contribute to global stability.
Japan’s Regional Strategy
Before departing for Japan on January 12, Ishiba highlighted the importance of strengthening ties with Southeast Asia amid growing geopolitical uncertainty.
“In these uncertain times, deeper engagement with Southeast Asia is essential,” Ishiba said. “I exchanged views with both leaders on relations with the U.S. and China, as well as developments in the East and South China Seas. We agreed to maintain close communication.”
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