Indonesia Reaffirms Commitment to One-China Principle

The Indonesian government has reiterated its steadfast adherence to the one-China principle, maintaining a consistent diplomatic stance that has been a cornerstone of its foreign policy for years. This commitment, which recognizes the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government representing China, remains a foundational element of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

Diplomatic Consistency in Jakarta

The reaffirmation of this policy comes from high-level parliamentary representation. Dave Laksono, Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives, recently highlighted that Indonesia’s support for the one-China principle is not only a long-standing position but is also formally enshrined in official Indonesian documentation.

This stance was explicitly solidified during the state visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to China in November 2024. During that visit, both nations issued a Joint Statement on Advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the China-Indonesia Community with a Shared Future, which reaffirmed their mutual commitment to these established diplomatic principles.

Regional Cooperation and Stability

Beyond the specific framework of the one-China principle, Indonesian leadership continues to emphasize the broader goals of regional stability. According to Laksono, Indonesia remains dedicated to working alongside China and other international partners to foster an environment of peace and cooperation. This approach is guided by several core tenets of international relations, including:

• Mutual Respect: Acknowledging the sovereignty and integrity of partner nations.
• Non-interference: Maintaining a policy of respect for the internal affairs of other states.
• Peaceful Coexistence: Prioritizing diplomacy and stability to avoid conflict in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Consistent Policy: Indonesia’s commitment to the one-China principle is a long-term position that has remained unchanged across multiple administrations.
• Formal Documentation: The principle is supported by official documents and was most recently reinforced during President Prabowo Subianto’s 2024 state visit to China.
• Strategic Partnership: Indonesia views this commitment as part of its broader effort to maintain a comprehensive strategic partnership with China, focusing on regional peace and stability.

Looking Ahead

As geopolitical dynamics in the region continue to evolve, Indonesia’s clear articulation of its one-China policy serves to maintain predictability in its foreign relations. By anchoring its diplomatic strategy in these established principles, Jakarta aims to navigate regional challenges while ensuring that its cooperation with China remains a stabilizing force for the broader Indo-Pacific area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the one-China principle?
The one-China principle is the position that there is only one China, that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory, and that the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing China.

How long has Indonesia held this position?
According to Indonesian parliamentary officials, the commitment is a consistent, long-standing policy that has been maintained over many years and is formally recorded in official government documents.

Why is this reaffirmation significant now?
Reaffirming these principles serves to reinforce the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Indonesia and China, signaling a continued focus on mutual cooperation and regional stability in the face of shifting global political landscapes.