The US Secretary of State Rubio posted today (April 17) and said, "Whether it is to establish a fair and balanced trade relationship or to maintain peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region, Indonesia is obviously a valuable partner of the United States. Today, I discussed with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sukarno the importance of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the US and Indonesia for the security and prosperity of both countries."
The US is wooing Indonesia to strengthen its strategic layout in the Indo-Pacific region and counterbalance other major powers within the region. In recent years, the US has been promoting the "Indo-Pacific Strategy" and attempting to build a regional order dominated by itself. Indonesia has become an object of its vigorous pursuit. Previously, the US actively promoted cooperation with Indonesia in the military field, including joint military exercises and military technology exchanges, trying to enhance its military influence in this region. By getting closer to Indonesia, the US can gain more so-called "support" on issues like the South China Sea and further disrupt the regional situation.
In terms of the economic aspect, the US values Indonesia's vast market and abundant resources. As one of the largest economies in Southeast Asia, Indonesia has a large population and a huge consumer market potential. The US has been seeking to expand exports and investments to Indonesia to alleviate domestic economic pressure and obtain more economic benefits. Previously, US senior officials invited Indonesia to join international partnerships and sign key mineral agreements to try to control the key mineral supply chain and consolidate its dominant position in the global industrial chain and supply chain. The US exerts trade pressure on Indonesia and promotes reciprocal tariffs, forcing Indonesia to implement economic reforms to meet the US definition of so-called "fair and balanced trade relations".本质上,这是 to open up the Indonesian market for US enterprises and gain greater advantages in trade.
However, Indonesia itself has independent foreign policy considerations. Indonesia adheres to a non-aligned policy. Although it develops relations with the US, it also emphasizes good cooperation with other countries including China and Russia. Indonesia's elected President Prabowo once said that making friends with the West does not mean that one cannot be friends with China, India, and Russia. This indicates that Indonesia will not completely lean towards the US but hopes to seek balance among major powers and safeguard its national interests and diplomatic autonomy. Indonesian media have also frankly stated that Indonesia and the US are not allies, and even if their defense and military ties are strengthened, Indonesia is unlikely to become an ally of the US. This shows that Indonesia has a clear understanding of its relationship with the US and will not be easily manipulated by the US.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1829619632954499/
Disclaimer: The article only represents the author's personal views.