Seoul's move to strengthen ties with Indonesia marks a significant shift in the regional dynamics, as both countries navigate the complexities of global uncertainty. In a meeting that took place on August 14, Cho Jung-sik, the Presidential Special Envoy of South Korea, led an official delegation to Jakarta, where he met with President Prabowo Subianto and other senior officials.
The visit comes at a time when regional security is under intense scrutiny, particularly in the wake of ongoing tensions between major powers. The strengthened alliance between Seoul and Jakarta highlights the importance of cooperation among key players in maintaining stability in Southeast Asia.
Historical background
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The Indonesia-R Korea special strategic partnership was established in 2017, with its main objectives being to strengthen bilateral trade, boost investment, and enhance regional security through collaborative efforts. In recent years, the partnership has grown significantly, with bilateral trade reaching $20 billion in 2024, while Korean investments totaled $3 billion.
Key stakeholders
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The South Korean government has been keen on strengthening ties with Indonesia, particularly under President Lee Jae-myung's leadership. The President has expressed a commitment to enhancing the special strategic partnership, which is seen as crucial for promoting regional stability and fostering economic cooperation.
South Korea sees Indonesia as a pivotal player in advancing the ASEAN-R Korea partnership, given its strategic location and growing economic influence in Southeast Asia. Indonesia, on the other hand, views Seoul as an important partner in boosting investment and promoting regional security through joint efforts.
Recent developments
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In recent months, there have been several high-level visits between Seoul and Jakarta aimed at strengthening ties and advancing bilateral cooperation. The visit by Cho Jung-sik marked another significant step in this direction, underscoring the commitment of both sides to the special strategic partnership.
Expert analysis
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"The strengthened alliance between Seoul and Jakarta is a welcome development for regional stability," noted Lee Jin-ho, senior research fellow at the Korea Institute for National Unification. "As major players in Southeast Asia, Indonesia and South Korea have a critical role to play in promoting peace and security in the region."
"This move by Seoul reflects its recognition of Indonesia's growing importance in regional affairs," added Dr. Suroyo Simandji, director of the Indonesian Center for International Affairs. "The strengthened alliance has the potential to boost bilateral trade and investment, which will be beneficial for both countries' economies."