Japan’s Natuna port proposal highlights Indonesia’s balancing act on China

AI Summary

Japan has proposed port upgrades in Indonesia's Natuna Islands as part of its effort to strengthen security in the South China Sea while avoiding an overt military presence. This move is viewed as part of Japan's broader security cooperation with Indonesia, though analysts caution that Indonesia is maintaining a neutral stance toward China.

Japan’s proposed port upgrades in Indonesia’s Natuna Islands reflect Tokyo’s push to bolster South China Sea security without building an overt military footprint. However, analysts stress that the move does not mean Jakarta is siding with Japan in its efforts to contain Beijing. Japan, which earlier this year eased its restrictions on lethal weapons exports, is ramping up security cooperation with Indonesia – a crucial bellwether for Southeast Asia. The expanding partnership includes joint...