Australia stands as one of Indonesia’s closest neighbors, with a long history of bilateral ties. Both countries have inked various agreements, including the Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA) in 2019. This agreement aims to enhance trade and investment opportunities, fostering deeper economic cooperation between the two nations.
China, one of Indonesia’s key trading partners, enjoys a significant relationship with the country. China has made substantial investments in Indonesia’s infrastructure projects, primarily in the energy and transportation sectors. However, concerns have been raised regarding the level of debt incurred by Indonesia in relation to these projects.
Moreover, Indonesia is actively strengthening its partnerships with other member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) through the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). The AEC seeks to establish a unified market and production base among ASEAN members, promoting economic integration and cooperation.
On the global stage, Indonesia holds membership in the Group of Twenty (G20), an international forum comprising major economies. Additionally, Indonesia actively participates in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) led by China. The BRI aims to enhance economic development and connectivity among participating countries, presenting opportunities for Indonesia’s growth and development.
However, Indonesia’s relationships with certain countries have experienced strain due to various issues, such as territorial disputes and concerns related to human rights. The country has faced criticism concerning its handling of domestic challenges, including corruption and religious intolerance.
As Indonesia continues to progress and mature, the nation recognizes the critical role that its relationships with neighboring countries and global partners play in shaping its economic and political landscape. Nurturing these connections remains pivotal as Indonesia strives for further growth and development on the international stage.