• Indonesia and China have signed multiple agreements to strengthen economic ties.
• Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of collaboration in the face of global challenges.
• Disputed territories in the South China Sea remain a point of tension between the two nations.
• Indonesia's commitment to creating a peaceful region was reiterated during discussions.
• The deepening relationship could shift Indonesia's alliances in the geopolitical landscape.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed Beijing’s ties with Jakarta on Sunday during his visit ahead of the regional ASEAN summit, emphasizing economic cooperation as a core element of their relationship. Premier Li stated, “China is willing to work together with Indonesia... to carry forward our tradition of friendship, and to strengthen solidarity and cooperation,” highlighting the long-standing economic partnership, especially in sectors such as nickel extraction. He warned that rising "unilateralism and protectionism" could pose threats to the global economic order, urging for unity between nations like Indonesia and China to address these challenges, according to channelnewsasia and thejakartapost.

In a significant meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Li Qiang discussed closer cooperation and oversaw the signing of several agreements worth over $10 billion. These agreements included commitments in sectors like economic development, finance, tourism, health, investment, and media. President Prabowo echoed the sentiment, stating, "Indonesia is ready to create a safe and prosperous region," which reinforces the importance both leaders place on collaboration to foster stability in Southeast Asia, according to Dawn and thejakartapost.

Despite the positive developments, the relationship is not without its challenges, particularly the contentious claims surrounding the South China Sea. Tensions have arisen from China's expanding presence in the contested waters, which has previously led to confrontations between Indonesian and Chinese vessels. In October, Indonesia reported driving Chinese coast guard ships from areas it claims. While economic cooperation continues to grow, these territorial disputes remain a sensitive topic that both countries must navigate carefully, as highlighted in previous discussions, according to channelnewsasia and thejakartapost.

Furthermore, commentators have pointed out that Indonesia's growing economic ties with China raise concerns over potential dependence on Beijing, especially given the geopolitical rivalries with the United States. As Indonesia seeks to balance its alliances, experts stress the importance of diversifying economic relationships with other nations in the region, like Japan and Australia, while continuing to engage meaningfully with both China and ASEAN partners. Such diversification is seen as vital to maintaining Indonesia’s autonomy and fostering a broader regional influence, according to thejakartapost.