Indonesia and China Discuss Maritime Development Agreement

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono reassured lawmakers that the recent joint maritime development deal with China does not compromise the nation's sovereignty, despite concerns that it could signify recognition of China's expansive claims in the South China Sea. The joint statement from the meeting between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Chinese President Xi Jinping, which mentioned development in overlapping claims, sparked significant debate. Sugiono emphasized that Indonesia maintains its position against China's nine-dash line claims, which have been deemed without legal basis by an international tribunal. He noted that no specific areas for joint development have been agreed upon, aiming to prevent any misinterpretation of Indonesia's intentions. Analysts caution that the agreement could represent a shift in Indonesia's long-standing non-claimant status in the region and call it a potential blunder. Indonesia's government is reportedly working to keep neighboring countries informed to mitigate tensions regarding the agreement.