Indonesia's presumed next leader, Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto, has used his first official visit to Beijing since February's election victory to send a powerful message of alignment with China. Meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Defence Minister Dong Jun, Prabowo made commitments that signal a potential softening of Jakarta's stance on one of the region's most contentious issues.
A Pledge of Non-Alignment and Friendship
Speaking at the Xiangshan Forum, Asia's premier security summit, the former general declared Indonesia's intention to remain a 'friend to all'. He emphasised a foreign policy rooted in 'non-alignment' and a dedication to 'prioritising friendly relations' with Beijing. This rhetoric marks a significant departure from the more assertive posture occasionally taken by the outgoing Joko Widodo administration.
The South China Sea Elephant in the Room
The most scrutinised part of Prabowo's address was his pledge to 'respect the great powers' – a phrase widely interpreted as a direct reference to China's expansive claims in the South China Sea. Indonesia itself has seen its exclusive economic zone encroached upon by Chinese coastguard vessels, a point of friction that Prabowo's comments seem designed to soothe.
Beijing's Warm Reception
The Chinese leadership responded enthusiastically. State media quoted President Xi Jinping expressing his hope that Prabowo would 'continue the tradition of friendship' between the two nations. Defence Minister Dong Jun was more explicit, calling for an upgrade in military cooperation and deeper collaboration in defence technology.
Regional Implications and Watchful Neighbours
This diplomatic courtship is being closely monitored across Southeast Asia and in Western capitals. A major regional player like Indonesia cosying up to Beijing could alter the delicate balance of power. Analysts suggest Prabowo is prioritising Chinese investment for his ambitious domestic economic agenda, potentially at the cost of a more robust defence of maritime sovereignty.
While Prabowo's election victory is not yet officially confirmed, his visit to Beijing solidifies his position as a statesman-in-waiting and offers a clear preview of the foreign policy direction a Prabowo presidency is likely to take.
