14-11-2023 (SAN FRANCISCO) Leaders from the United States and Indonesia engaged in crucial discussions on Monday, setting the stage for US President Joe Biden’s first in-person meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in over a year. Indonesian President Joko Widodo was welcomed by Biden at the White House as both leaders prepare for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco, where efforts to reduce tensions with Beijing will be in focus. The meeting between Biden and Xi is scheduled for Wednesday.
Key areas of collaboration, particularly in defence, are expected to be a focal point of discussions between Biden and Widodo. This includes cybersecurity, space initiatives, joint military exercises, and strategies to address nuclear threats. A senior Biden administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed these anticipated agreements.
On the climate front, the United States is set to announce joint efforts with Indonesia in areas such as carbon capture and storage, support for the electrical grid, and initiatives to enhance air quality.
In addition, Reuters reported on Sunday that both countries are working towards advancing a potential minerals partnership, with a specific focus on the electric vehicle (EV) battery metal nickel. This partnership aims to strengthen cooperation in addressing the global demand for minerals critical to the EV industry.
However, concerns regarding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards in Indonesia persist within the Biden administration. The official stated that a plan would be unveiled to prepare the groundwork for negotiations on this issue.
Indonesia’s President Widodo is expected to appeal to the US to take more decisive actions to end the conflict between Israel and Hamas. In the Oval Office, Widodo stated, “Indonesia appeals to the US to do more to stop the atrocities in Gaza. Ceasefire is a must for the sake of humanity.”
As the largest Muslim-majority nation with significant public sentiment on the matter, Indonesia seeks increased US involvement in the Middle East. The US official mentioned that President Biden will be asked to play a larger role, without specifying the nature of this expanded role.
In a move highlighting the economic ties between Indonesia and the US, Jakarta is anticipated to formally elevate diplomatic relations with Washington to the highest tier. President Biden is also expected to announce new funding for Indonesia’s semiconductor industry.
The leaders will also address Indonesia’s diplomatic efforts concerning the conflict in Myanmar, where the military seized control in a 2021 coup, leading to ongoing clashes with rebel alliances. The official noted that discussions would focus on finding collaborative approaches to deal with the complex situation.
President Joko Widodo, in office since 2014, is constitutionally required to step down next year after serving the maximum two terms. The discussions between the leaders reflect the intricate geopolitical landscape in Southeast Asia and the evolving dynamics between the US, China, and regional partners.
