Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono in Jakarta on Friday, and the two countries’ defence and foreign ministers are scheduled to meet later in a 2+2 dialogue. The talks focus on security, political relations and economic cooperation as Indonesia seeks to balance its ties with China and the United States amid trade disputes and South China Sea tensions.

Wang said that amid complex global challenges, the meeting under the new dialogue mechanism was timely and both countries should seize the moment. He added that unilateralism and hegemonic acts undermine global cooperation and stability, and that China aims to build high‑level cooperation with Indonesia.

Defence Minister Dong Jun arrived in Jakarta and said the two militaries have scope to work together to protect national interests and counter external threats. He noted that military cooperation is becoming higher in quality and more effective. Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said joint exercises, officer exchanges and defence industry partnerships will increase, describing the steps as part of Indonesia’s effort to strengthen its defence capabilities.

Earlier in August, the Chinese and Indonesian navies conducted a joint exercise east of Taiwan, which Indonesia described as routine and which also involved Japan and the United States. Analyst Curie Maharani said the location allowed China to project influence, and Indonesia recognised that great powers use defence diplomacy as an instrument of influence.

Chinese firms contributed $3.9 billion in foreign direct investment to Indonesia in the first half of 2026, according to Indonesian data. Some companies have called for more business‑friendly policies, citing high taxes and a new nickel pricing formula that raise costs. The China Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia said firms face stringent regulation, over‑enforcement and reports of corruption.

Key investors include Contemporary Amperex Technology and steelmaker Tsingshan Group. The meeting underscores continuing efforts to deepen economic and security ties while Indonesia maintains a non‑aligned foreign policy.