Indonesia and China celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations

As this year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Indonesia, Indonesian Ambassador to China Djauhari Oratmangun expressed Jakarta's commitment to strengthening its enduring partnership with Beijing, signaling a future filled with even greater promise for the bilateral relationship.

Addressing a media gathering on Thursday in Beijing, Oratmangun highlighted that 2024 was a significant milestone in Indonesia-China relations. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto made two official visits to Beijing, with the second visit, in November 2024, being his first state visit abroad after assuming office.

"The decision to visit Beijing just 20 days after his inauguration is a clear message that Indonesia values our relationship with China deeply," the ambassador said.

As strong partnerships and collaboration with partners are crucial to addressing complex global challenges, he particularly mentioned the robust economic and trade interactions between Indonesia and China, saying they serve as a key area of strength.

China was ranked as Indonesia's largest trading partner in 2024, while Indonesia ranks as China's third-largest trading partner in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Chinese official data show the total trade volume between the two countries reached $147.78 billion last year, marking a 6.1 percent year-on-year increase.

"To further enhance trade performance, Indonesia is committed to diversifying its export portfolio," he said. "This includes increasing the presence of Indonesian fish and agricultural products in the Chinese market by strengthening connectivity between industrial supply chains".

Oratmangun also underscored that China is expected to remain among the top three sources of foreign investment in Indonesia in the foreseeable future.

In addition to economic cooperation, Oratmangun emphasized the importance of cultural and people-to-people exchanges in strengthening the bond of friendship and fostering greater mutual understanding between the two countries and the two peoples.

He noted the immense potential for tourism growth, with Indonesia having welcomed over 1.1 million Chinese tourists last year.

"Thirteen airlines, with a total seat capacity exceeding 1.11 million, now connect cities across China with Indonesia," Oratmangun said, "We invite more Chinese tourists to discover Indonesia — a land of adventure, discovery, and unique experiences".

The Embassy, in partnership with Chinese universities, has established the Indonesia Cultural Center in China, offering the Chinese community direct access to Indonesia's cultural richness, he added. "All these cooperation reflects a strong foundation and

the trajectory for more concrete and mutually beneficial cooperation".

To mark the 75th anniversary of Indonesia-China diplomatic relations, the ambassador revealed that both countries would release commemorative joint stamps in April. Additionally, the two nations jointly launched a logo for the anniversary in Jakarta last month.