Beijing, November 10, 2024 – Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Beijing on Saturday, marking the first stop of Prabowo’s inaugural foreign tour since taking office in October. During their talks, Xi expressed China’s hopes for a “new chapter” in bilateral relations, emphasizing cooperation and mutual benefit between the two nations.
In a joint statement before the press, Xi outlined Beijing’s aspirations to work with Jakarta to foster "self-reliance, solidarity, and cooperation" as major developing countries. “Together, we can create a new chapter of win-win outcomes,” Xi said, underscoring the significance of China-Indonesia ties in both countries' development.
The meeting comes amid growing economic ties between China and Indonesia, with Chinese investments pouring into Indonesia’s natural resources sector, particularly the nickel industry. However, the two nations also have differences, particularly over competing territorial claims in the South China Sea.
Prabowo, for his part, noted the strengthening of the bilateral relationship, saying, “I would like to reiterate our commitment to work together for the mutual benefit of our peoples and for the prosperity, peace, and stability of all of Asia.” He called for deeper collaboration in various areas, from trade to regional security.
The meeting was followed by a formal welcome ceremony at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People. During their discussions, officials from both sides signed several key agreements, including memorandums of understanding on maritime safety and water resources cooperation, marking tangible progress in the strategic partnership.
Prabowo’s visit to China began on Friday and is part of a broader diplomatic tour. After he meets with Xi, Prabowo is scheduled to meet with Premier Li Qiang and Politburo member Zhao Leji. He will then continue his journey to Washington at the invitation of U.S. President Joe Biden, followed by stops in Peru, Brazil, and the United Kingdom.
While Prabowo has pledged to maintain Indonesia's traditionally non-aligned foreign policy, he has also emphasized a more active international role for his country, positioning Indonesia as a key player on the global stage.
As Indonesia continues to engage more robustly with world powers, its evolving relationship with China remains a central aspect of its foreign policy strategy, balancing economic cooperation with geopolitical considerations.
