RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Relations between Indonesia and China are projected to grow stronger under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto and President Xi Jinping, with the partnership expected to deliver tangible development benefits for both countries.

Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia Wang Lutong said the strategic direction set by the two leaders has brought bilateral ties into a new phase.

“Under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, Indonesia–China relations continue to build strong momentum and have entered the stage of building a community with a shared future,” Wang said in a statement in Jakarta, as quoted by Antara on Saturday, July 18, 2026.

He explained that cooperation will focus on five main pillars: politics, the economy, people-to-people and cultural ties, maritime affairs, and security. Wang also noted that President Prabowo has visited China three times, while President Xi has made several visits to Indonesia since 2013.

According to Wang, relations between Indonesia and China have reached the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. This is marked by ongoing dialogue through the “2+2” mechanism between the foreign and defense ministers, as well as intensive communication among senior officials of both countries.

In the economic sector, bilateral trade between Indonesia and China reached USD 167.49 billion in 2025. China has maintained its position as Indonesia’s largest trading partner for 13 consecutive years.

“The Jakarta–Bandung High-Speed Rail is a flagship project in the mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries,” Wang said.

Beyond the economy, people-to-people ties have been strengthened through a 240-hour visa-free transit policy for Indonesian passport holders and the expansion of Mandarin language instruction, including through the “China Space” facility at the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta.

From January to May, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Indonesia reached 765,700, a 21.16 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Wang emphasized that China is prepared to implement all agreements reached by President Prabowo and President Xi. This, he said, will ensure that bilateral cooperation becomes increasingly productive and mutually beneficial.

“The abundant results of China–Indonesia cooperation stem from the alignment of development philosophies, deeply shared common interests, and opportunities arising from China’s stable and long-term development,” Wang added. ***