Indonesia-China ties strengthen with high-level visits, trade growth

Beijing (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s relationship with China is deepening, marked by high-level visits and expanding economic ties, Indonesia’s Ambassador to China and Mongolia Djauhari Oratmangun said.

Speaking at a diplomatic reception marking Indonesia’s 80th independence day in Beijing on Friday (24/10) evening, Djauhari highlighted the evolution of bilateral relations from a four-pillar framework to a five-pillar comprehensive partnership covering politics, economy, maritime, socio-culture, and security.

The event drew around 800 guests, including ambassadors, diplomats, government officials, Indonesian and Chinese business leaders, citizens, and students.

Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister Sun Weidong and Deputy Minister of the International Department of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) Sun Haiyang also attended.

Djauhari noted that recent high-level meetings, including President Prabowo Subianto’s September visit to Beijing, Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s May visit to Jakarta, and the first 2+2 Foreign and Defense Ministers Dialogue in April, strengthened bilateral communication and led to the creation of a Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue.

Economic ties remain a cornerstone of the relationship. Trade between the two nations reached US$147.79 billion in 2024 and $104.82 billion in January-August 2025.

Chinese investment in Indonesia totaled $8.1 billion in 2024, while Hong Kong invested $8.2 billion; in the first half of 2025, investments reached $3.6 billion and $4.6 billion, respectively. Both countries agreed to enhance local currency transactions.

China is also Indonesia’s largest source of inbound tourists, with 1.2 million visits in 2024 and 905,000 in January-August 2025. Djauhari said tourism could rise further with new flight routes and destinations.

The reception showcased Indonesian culture, including traditional dances, music, and cuisine such as rendang, soto ayam, sate, bakso, gado-gado, nasi goreng, mi goreng, pisang goreng, and Indonesian coffee.

Ambassador Djauhari performed songs including “Indonesia Pusaka” and joined dances such as Poco-poco with his family trio.

The event also featured a musical fusion of Indonesian and Chinese instruments led by gamelan instructor Risnandar from Beijing’s Central Conservatory of Music.

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