China has historically been seen as the greatest threat to national security by Indonesia's military, including new President Prabowo Subianto. That is changing.
Indonesia has made a point of driving at least three Chinese vessels out of waters near its coastline in the space of a week.
Indonesia does not have a formal territorial dispute with China over the South China Sea but has become increasingly protective of its rights in the region, while Chinese ships have regularly entered the area Indonesia calls the North Natuna Sea.Dr Yaacob said it was likely a matter of the Prabowo government wanting to publicise its response, rather than Jokowi's quieter approach.
The latest incidents took place in Indonesia's exclusive economic zone off the country's Natuna Islands, roughly 1,500 kilometres from China's Hainan Island. "China is ready to enhance communication and consultation with Indonesia through diplomatic channels," he added.Dewi Fortuna Anwar, one of Indonesia's leading experts on foreign policy, told the ABC that "looking at Chinese behaviour, it's becoming more assertive".The Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague in 2016 said China's claim had no basis under international law, a ruling Beijing does not recognise.
Far more engaged with foreign affairs than his predecessor, Prabowo has signalled his intention to maintain positive relationships with both China and Western powers — the US and Australia in particular.He visited China frequently as defence minister and just weeks into his presidency, Prabowo will visit China and the US as part of a five-country tour.In the battle for power and influence in Asia, one report says the size of a country's military isn't all that matters.
China Beijing Jakarta Indonesia Prabowo Subianto Coast Guard
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Philippines condemns China’s ‘unlawful’ aggression in South China SeaPhilippine Secretary of National Defence Gilberto Teodoro Jr has warned of China's 'attempt to redefine international law' as it continues its aggression in the South China Sea.
Read more »
Russia and China accused of blocking Asean statement due to dispute over South China SeaRussian foreign minister says final declaration not adopted because of attempts by US, Japan, South Korea, Australia and NZ ‘to turn it into a purely political statement’
Read more »
China building ‘counter-stealth’ radar on disputed South China Sea reef, satellite pictures suggestUpgraded Triton Island outpost in the Paracel archipelago expands China’s surveillance capabilities in the region
Read more »
The key sticking point Albanese is expected to press China on in LaosChina’s maritime aggression in the South China Sea is expected to be raised when Anthony Albanese presses Premier Li Qiang on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Laos.
Read more »
Australia's Wallaroos defeat South Africa 33-26 in pulsating clash at WXV2 tournamentThe Wallaroos move closer to a WXV2 tournament title with a gutsy win over South Africa in Cape Town.
Read more »
England’s first triple ton this century threatens all-time Test history over hapless PakistanCricket: Nathan Lyon has taken five wickets in the Sheffield Shield clash between New South Wales and South Australia including Australian wicket keeper Alex Carey just before he hit a century.
Read more »