In a landmark meeting at the White House, President Biden warmly greeted President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia, marking a significant milestone in the 75-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations. A bond founded on the bedrock of democracy, pluralism, and a shared commitment to uphold the rules-based global order has cemented the partnership between the world’s second- and third-largest democracies.
Deepening the collaboration further, the United States and Indonesia are dedicated to navigating challenges and seizing opportunities hand in hand, with a focus on mutual benefit and respect for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The elevation of the relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2023 underscores the commitment to strengthening ties and fostering cooperation in various domains.
- Promoting Sustainable, Resilient Economic Growth
The collaborative efforts between the United States and Indonesia extend towards fostering sustainable economic growth and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives:
- The Trade and Investment Framework Agreement sets the stage for expanded engagement in trade, including agriculture, with an eye on hosting a meeting in 2025 to further enhance bilateral ties.
- The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) stands as a testament to economic cooperation among the 14 partnering nations, aiming to bolster competitive supply chains and create a conducive environment for businesses.
- The MCC Indonesia Infrastructure and Finance Compact, worth $649 million, is dedicated to improving infrastructure quality and accessibility to finance for small and medium enterprises.
- Various efforts to promote labor rights and occupational health, such as the Digital Infrastructure Smart City Pilot Project, underscore the commitment to inclusive economic advancement.
- Tackling the Climate Crisis
Amidst the global climate crisis, the United States stands shoulder to shoulder with Indonesia in harnessing the clean energy transition and mitigating deforestation. Through initiatives like the International Partners Group (IPG) and Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), significant progress has been made:
- Support for clean energy transition planning, mobilized finance for clean energy projects, and efforts to aid workforce transition underscore the commitment to sustainable energy practices.
- Collaborative projects to explore clean energy alternatives for industrial growth, expand access to climate-resilient water and sanitation, and protect marine conservation through innovative initiatives like the Marine Conservation Debt-For-Nature Swap Agreement demonstrate a comprehensive approach to combating climate change.
- Investing in Health Systems
Ensuring access to quality health services forms a cornerstone of the partnership between the United States and Indonesia. Over $1.1 billion has been invested through USAID to strengthen Indonesia’s health systems, including initiatives like:
- Bolstering health security, improving tuberculosis detection, and expanding the use of a national electronic health platform highlight the concerted efforts to address health challenges and strengthen healthcare delivery in Indonesia.
- Empowering People-to-People Ties
President Biden and President Subianto celebrated the robust people-to-people ties between the United States and Indonesia, emphasizing the importance of cultural, educational, and professional exchanges. Initiatives like:
- Cultural heritage preservation, interfaith dialogues, increased access to higher education, educational exchanges, and efforts to enhance digital literacy underscore the commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and educational opportunities.
- Partnerships to promote democratic governance, human rights, civil society, and transparency reinforce the dedication to upholding fundamental freedoms and anti-corruption efforts in Indonesia.
- Deepening Regional and Global Cooperation
Both nations are committed to upholding ASEAN centrality and the principles outlined in the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy. Through initiatives such as:
- The expansion of exercises like Super Garuda Shield, enhancing military-to-military relationships, and collaborative efforts in the Indo-Pacific region, the United States and Indonesia demonstrate a united front in addressing regional security challenges.
In conclusion, the unwavering commitment between the United States and Indonesia to deepen cooperation across various sectors underscores the shared values and strategic interests that underpin this longstanding partnership. As we look towards a future of shared prosperity, security, and resilience, both nations stand ready to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities hand in hand.
