Description: Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrived in Jakarta where he met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the two discussed strengthening bilateral ties facing threats from China and economic uncertainties from the US. Recent controversies arose as Russia floated the idea of establishing a long – range ballistic missile base in the most eastern parts of Indonesia which were quickly dismissed by the government in Jakarta. The two countries signed a comprehensive Defense Cooperation Agreement in 2024, which further bolstered bilateral ties. The Indonesian President praised Australia’s commitment and support to integrate his country within the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Impact: Albanese’s visit to Indonesia highlights Australia’s forthcoming strategic posturing in the region, positioning itself as a key pillar for countering Chinese geopolitical influence. Indonesia’s booming economy is set to become one of the world’s largest in the next decade and would represent the region’s geoeconomic stronghold. Regional alliances in the Indo – Pacific are on the rise fueled by the direct geopolitical confrontation between China and the US. Australia and Indonesia despite adopting different positions regarding the US – China disputes in the region represent crucial countries impacting the regional power dynamics in the constanty unstable Indo – Pacific region.