China and Indonesia are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations, marking a journey from traditional cooperation to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This partnership not only strengthens their own ties but also offers a model for other Global South countries seeking independent development paths.
Over the past decades, China and Indonesia have supported each other on the international stage, adhering to principles of strategic autonomy and sovereign equality. Their close high-level exchanges and improved dialogue mechanisms have deepened political trust and guided the growth of their relationship.
The elevation of their cooperation from the “four-wheel drive”—political, economic, cultural, and maritime areas—to the “five pillars,” with the addition of security cooperation, reflects their growing strategic trust.
Economic and trade collaboration has flourished. In 2023, bilateral trade reached $147.8 billion, making China Indonesia’s largest trading partner for the 12th consecutive year. Chinese investments span multiple sectors, including infrastructure, manufacturing, and energy.
A flagship project is the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway, Southeast Asia’s first high-speed rail, completed in 2023. This rail line significantly reduces travel time between Jakarta and Bandung, boosting economic development along its route.
The Morowali Industrial Park, backed by Chinese private enterprises, has become a global hub for nickel processing and new energy industries, supporting Indonesia’s industrial upgrading.
People-to-people exchanges are stronger than ever. There are more scholarships and educational opportunities, with student exchanges expanding between the two nations. Chinese culture, including cuisine, martial arts, and festivals like the Spring Festival, is increasingly popular in Indonesia. Likewise, Indonesia welcomes Chinese tourists with visa-free entry to destinations like Bali.
Surveys show a positive perception among Indonesians towards China, with over half seeing China as the “most constructive force” and more than 60% of Indonesian youth viewing China as a “leader in innovation and technology.”
Looking ahead, the alignment of China’s modernization efforts with Indonesia’s “Golden Indonesia 2045” vision promises unprecedented opportunities. Both countries aim to refine dialogue mechanisms, enhance strategic communication, and share governance experiences to strengthen political trust.
On the global stage, China and Indonesia can collaborate to promote a fair and reasonable global governance system, defend the interests of developing nations, and advocate for reform.
They plan to tap into the potential of trade and investment, leveraging opportunities from agreements like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership to reduce barriers and modernize regional supply chains. Cooperation in cutting-edge technologies—big data, AI, blockchain—and jointly building the Digital Silk Road are on the agenda.
There’s also vast potential in new energy sectors like electric vehicles, lithium batteries, and photovoltaics. Cultural exchanges will deepen through language education, digital literacy programs, and vocational training, cultivating young ambassadors of friendship.
By revitalizing the Bandung Spirit—solidarity, friendship, and cooperation—China and Indonesia aim to strengthen solidarity among Asian and African nations, amplify the voices of developing countries in global governance, uphold multilateralism, and collectively address global challenges.
