Indonesia, China Launch Strategic Dialogue to Deepen Ties

Indonesia and China convened their inaugural Comprehensive and Strategic Dialogue (CSD) in Jakarta on Friday, marking a new phase in bilateral relations. The meeting brought together the two countries' foreign and defense ministers to discuss enhanced cooperation in defense, economics, and other key areas.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi launched the new mechanism, which is designed to strengthen collaboration across five pillars: political, economic, security, maritime, and people-to-people relations.

Speaking at the meeting, Wang Yi said the partnership between the two nations has expanded beyond bilateral concerns. "Amid changes unseen in a century, cooperation between our two countries has already gone beyond the bilateral sphere and is having a broad and profound impact on the region and the world," he said.

Wang also announced that both sides have agreed to begin consultations on a five-year action plan covering 2027 to 2030, with the aim of reaching an agreement as soon as possible. He emphasized the importance of strategic autonomy and mutual support for core interests.

The Chinese foreign minister further stated that the two countries would strengthen policy coordination on multilateral platforms, including the United Nations and BRICS. He called for joint opposition to "unilateral bullying and power politics" and stressed the need to safeguard international fairness and the legitimate rights of developing countries.

Indonesia's economic relationship with China has grown significantly in recent years, with bilateral trade valued at approximately $167.48 billion in 2025. The new dialogue mechanism is expected to further solidify these ties while addressing regional security concerns.