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Indonesia, China bolster defence ties and energy cooperation

Indonesian and Chinese top ministers pledged deeper defence cooperation and enhanced coordination on energy and food security during talks in Jakarta, with both sides emphasizing opposition to unilateral power politics in the region.

LSN India · 21 August 2026

Indonesia, China bolster defence ties and energy cooperation

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met Friday to chart a course for expanded cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussions centred on establishing a new bilateral dialogue framework aimed at advancing shared priorities in defence, political affairs, economic partnership, maritime issues and people-to-people exchanges.

Both sides stressed the importance of coordinated action on development and security challenges facing the two countries. Officials said the enhanced cooperation would provide strategic safeguards as Indonesia and China pursue modernisation initiatives.

Wang used the occasion to underscore the countries' shared opposition to unilateral approaches and power politics in international relations. He called for vigilance against efforts to undermine post-World War II international outcomes and reaffirmed commitment to defending the rights and interests of developing nations on the global stage.

The Jakarta talks reflect deepening strategic engagement between Southeast Asia's largest economy and China as both nations navigate regional geopolitical shifts. Energy security emerged as a particular focus area, reflecting shared concerns about supply chain resilience and resource availability in the Indo-Pacific region.