TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – China and Indonesia are seeking to deepen defense cooperation as both countries expand military engagement under their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, according to officials from both sides.
Speaking at a reception in Jakarta on Monday marking the 99th anniversary of the founding of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA), China's Defense Attaché to Indonesia, Senior Colonel Xu Sheng, said strategic trust between the two countries continues to grow, driving closer defense relations.
"Strategic trust between China and Indonesia continues to increase, and the two countries have established a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," Xu said.
He said bilateral military cooperation has expanded under the direction of the two countries' leaders through joint exercises, reciprocal naval visits, personnel training, and multilateral engagements.
According to Xu, Indonesia and China have strengthened cooperation across five pillars: politics, the economy, socio-cultural affairs, maritime affairs, and security. He added that the growing defense partnership would contribute to what China describes as a "China-Indonesia community with a shared future" with regional and global influence.
Xu also thanked Indonesia's Defense Ministry, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and institutions from both countries for their role in strengthening military ties.
Indonesia Seeks Broader Defense Cooperation
Indonesia has likewise signaled its intention to expand defense cooperation with China.
During the first Indonesia-China 2+2 Ministerial Meeting in Beijing in April 2025, Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said Jakarta is committed to strengthening defense ties with Beijing as part of the two countries' Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
"Indonesia is enhancing defense cooperation within the framework of its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the People's Republic of China," Sjafrie said in a statement released by the Defense Ministry.
He said potential areas of cooperation include joint military exercises, modernization of defense equipment, and collaboration in the defense industry.
Sjafrie and Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun also discussed broader strategic issues affecting bilateral relations during the meeting. According to the Defense Ministry, Sjafrie expressed hope that stronger defense cooperation would reinforce bilateral ties while contributing to regional stability and the protection of national sovereignty.
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