Strengthening Ties: Indonesia and Vietnam Discuss Strategic Partnership at APEC 2024
On November 15, 2024, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Vietnamese President Luong Cuong convened for a pivotal bilateral meeting in Lima, Peru, amid the ongoing APEC 2024 Summit. The leaders focused on deepening the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Vietnam, with aspirations to enhance economic cooperation and finalize important agreements, including the much-anticipated Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) agreement.
A Historic Meeting for Economic Progress
The meeting highlighted the leaders’ commitment to strengthening existing ties, particularly in trade and economic collaboration. President Prabowo emphasized, “Our economic cooperation is great, and we want to strengthen this cooperation in the future.” This sentiment reflects a mutual desire to boost bilateral relations as both nations prepare to celebrate the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2025.
The cornerstone of their discussions was the Exclusive Economic Zone agreement, which reached a significant milestone with its completion in 2022 after extensive negotiations spanning over 12 years. Prabowo assured that Indonesia is eager to accelerate the ratification process and finalize the implementation arrangements. While the Presidential Palace has not released additional details, this commitment signals Indonesia’s determination to foster regional stability and economic growth.
Acknowledging Leadership and Shared History
In a gesture of goodwill, President Prabowo congratulated President Luong Cuong on his recent inauguration on October 21, 2024. The Indonesian leader acknowledged the attendance of Vietnam’s Vice President at his own inauguration the day prior, reinforcing the strong diplomatic ties between the two countries.
Prabowo also took a moment to recognize Vietnam’s historical fight against colonialism, stating that the narratives of their struggles unite both nations. He underscored the importance of a close relationship between Indonesia and Vietnam in the Southeast Asian region, emphasizing shared goals and strategic interests.
An Aspiration for a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
President Luong Cuong expressed appreciation for the robust bilateral relationship, asserting confidence that under President Prabowo’s administration, Indonesia would continue to achieve significant advancements. He proposed upgrading their existing cooperation to a comprehensive strategic partnership, especially in light of the upcoming anniversary of diplomatic relations.
“We must enhance our collaboration, and I am looking forward to Indonesia’s support in international forums, including the UN,” Luong shared. He highlighted recent legal resolutions approved by the Vietnamese National Assembly concerning regional issues, indicating a proactive approach to fostering regional cooperation, particularly in relation to sensitive matters like the South China Sea.
Economic Goals on the Horizon
A key aspect of the meeting revolved around economic collaboration, with both leaders optimistic about achieving a trade target of $18 billion. President Luong Cuong expressed hope that both nations would work to expand their markets and improve trade facilities through relevant ministries. “I think we should propose that both parties expand their markets, and I have asked the relevant ministers to facilitate that,” he said.
This ambitious trade target encapsulates the leaders’ shared vision for enhancing economic ties, addressing domestic needs, and underpinning regional stability in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
The Future of Indonesia-Vietnam Relations
As both leaders departed from this significant meeting, the implications for Indonesia-Vietnam relations are clear. With plans for enhanced economic cooperation, a renewed focus on strategic partnerships, and a commitment to mutual support in international forums, the path ahead appears promising.
The discussions also open avenues for engagement between the private sectors of both nations, inviting business prospects that could further stimulate economic growth and investment. As Vietnam aims to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership, Indonesia will play a pivotal role as a regional ally.
The positive outcomes of this meeting contribute to the broader narrative of Southeast Asian unity, as countries strive to navigate the complexities of global politics while maintaining solid bilateral relationships.
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Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts or insights on the Indonesia-Vietnam strategic partnership in the comments below. What do you foresee as the most impactful areas of cooperation between the two nations?
