Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono in Tianjin on Thursday, underscoring deepening bilateral cooperation as the two nations prepare for major regional events. The talks focused on mutual security assurances and commemorative milestones, reflecting Asia's evolving diplomatic landscape.
Sugiono arrived in China as a special envoy of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who postponed his visit due to domestic priorities. The Indonesian minister conveyed President Prabowo's commitment to 'prioritizing the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions' amid recent geopolitical shifts, a gesture welcomed by Wang.
The meeting coincided with preparations for the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit and the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Wang, who also serves on the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized China's appreciation for Indonesia's 'independent foreign policy' and its role in regional stability.
Analysts note the timing highlights Indonesia's strategic balancing act as a key ASEAN economy navigating U.S.-China tensions. The ministers' pledge to safeguard mutual interests comes as Chinese investments in Indonesia's nickel and infrastructure sectors exceed $15 billion since 2020.
This diplomatic exchange signals continued alignment between the world's second- and seventh-largest economies, with implications for supply chain resilience and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.
