Indonesia and China reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating the finalization of the South China Sea Code of Conduct while upholding ASEAN centrality in regional security management, according to an official statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The commitment emerged during the second 2+2 dialogue mechanism held in Jakarta on Friday, August 21. Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin jointly led the meeting alongside their counterparts from China, Wang Yi and Dong Jun. Both nations voiced support for fully implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and called for an expedited conclusion of a binding code of conduct under the ASEAN-China framework.
Bilateral Security and Defense Expansion
Moving past maritime rules, the two sides resolved to intensify bilateral ties across the defense, security, and political spheres. To strengthen military ties, both sides committed to expanding interaction mechanisms between the Indonesian National Armed Forces and China’s People’s Liberation Army. These efforts will be anchored by institutionalized regular meetings between their respective defense ministers.
The expanded partnership also targets broader law enforcement and security challenges. According to the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both delegations agreed to enhance joint actions, information sharing, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at curbing transnational crime and reinforcing cybersecurity resilience.
Did You Know? Building on the initial 2+2 meeting hosted in Beijing in April 2025, the Jakarta summit carried out a strategic plan set by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Chinese President Xi Jinping during their November 2024 summit to strengthen bilateral security architecture.
Geopolitical Alignment and Economic Linkages
Addressing wider economic and geopolitical matters, the participants stressed that strengthening economic connections between ASEAN and China is crucial for driving regional prosperity and enduring stability. Shifting focus to global issues, both delegations expressed mutual anxiety regarding the Middle East crisis, urging international collaboration to secure a lasting and fair political solution for Palestine.
Jakarta representatives highlighted that robust cooperation with Beijing demonstrates the nation’s adherence to its independent and active foreign policy stance. “Our region needs partnerships built on the principles of mutual respect and understanding to maintain a peaceful, open and inclusive region,” Sugiono said, stressing that open dialogue remains vital for building trust amid escalating global tensions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where did the second 2+2 dialogue take place?
The meeting took place in Jakarta on Friday, August 21.
Who co-chaired the dialogue for Indonesia and China?
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin presided over the talks alongside their Chinese counterparts, Wang Yi and Dong Jun.
What specific maritime agreements were discussed during the summit?
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating the finalization of the South China Sea Code of Conduct, supporting the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and advancing a binding code under the ASEAN-China framework.
How do you view Indonesia’s diplomatic balancing act between major powers in regional security talks?