Indonesia Advocates for Strategic Autonomy Amid US-China Rivalry, Asserts Non-Alignment at Shangri-La Dialogue

Indonesia is taking a cautious stance amid the escalating tensions between the United States and China, emphasizing the need for both superpowers to exercise restraint and wisdom to avoid exacerbating regional tensions. At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Indonesian defense community leader Professor Dei Fortuna Anir highlighted Indonesia’s desire for strategic autonomy and the importance of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) in maintaining peace and stability in the region. Despite historical conflicts and current disputes, particularly in the South China Sea, Indonesia is advocating for dialogue and cooperation rather than conflict.

• Indonesia calls for restraint and responsibility from the US and China to prevent increased tensions in the region.
• ASEAN plays a crucial role in providing a platform for dialogue and cooperation between the United States and China.
• Despite signs of de-escalation, there is still massive distrust and fear of potential conflict within the next two decades.
• Indonesia does not consider itself a party to the South China Sea disputes but is affected by China’s claims on its exclusive economic zone.
• Indonesia stands by international law, particularly UNCLOS 1982, in its stance on maritime disputes.
• Indonesia’s economic relations with China are strong, yet it firmly defends its sovereign rights in maritime issues.
• There is concern that increased Chinese coercion in the South China Sea may drive ASEAN countries to seek more military support from external powers like the United States.
• Indonesia maintains a non-aligned stance but is wary of the potential for regional division due to major power rivalry.
• ASEAN aims to remain cohesive and avoid being drawn into proxy conflicts or divided by major power competitions.
• Indonesia and ASEAN stress the importance of keeping Southeast Asia peaceful, resilient, and engaged with all countries.

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