In a historic move to enhance bilateral relations, Indonesia and China held their first-ever 2+2 Dialog in Beijin on Monday, April 21, 2025, involving foreign and defense ministers of both nations. 

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin met with Chinese counterparts Wang Yi and Dong Jun to discuss a wide range of strategic, regional, and global issues.

This marked the first ministerial-level 2+2 Dialog that China has conducted with any partner countries. The meeting focused on deepening cooperation in political, defense, and security affairs, alongside regional and global challenges of mutual concern.

“This dialog is a strategic platform to align our steps, reinforce mutual trust, and chart a new path for Indonesia–China cooperation,” Sugiono said as quoted in a statement on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

A key outcome was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on the establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue (CSD), aiming to create a more focused and robust bilateral mechanism across five pillars: economy, people-to-people relations, maritime affairs, politics, and security.

The two countries agreed to enhance law enforcement collaboration through mutual legal assistance, intelligence exchange, and coordinated operations against transnational crime, cybercrime, and extremism. They are also committed to launching a new bilateral consultation mechanism on disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control.

On maritime cooperation, both sides pledged to strengthen coordination between Indonesian Coast Guard (Bakamla) and the China Coast Guard.

“Maritime cooperation must deliver real benefits to the people and contribute to regional maritime security,” Sugiono said.

In terms of multilateral engagement, the ministers underscored the urgency of reforming the global multilateral system to be more just, representative, and inclusive. They reaffirmed their commitment to stronger coordination within ASEAN, BRICS, G20, and the UN.

“Indonesia and China hold a strategic position to advocate for a fairer multilateral system that addresses the interests of the Global South,” Sugiono emphasized.

The dialog also addressed global trade tensions, with Sugiono expressing concern about the impact of tariff wars on the global economy. He called for balanced and constructive relations with both China and the United States, citing their importance to Indonesia’s development.

Beyond the 2+2 meeting, Sugiono held a bilateral discussion with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to follow up on economic development and health cooperation. He urged that economic ties focus not only on trade volumes, but also on capacity building, technology transfer, and sustainability.

Sugiono also inaugurated a diplomatic reception marking the 75th anniversary of Indonesia–China diplomatic relations, during which commemorative stamps and envelopes were launched. He announced the finalization of plans to open an Indonesian Consulate General in Chengdu in 2025, to better serve Indonesian citizens in southwest China.

China remains Indonesia’s largest trading partner and a key investor in its national development agenda. Diplomatic relationship, established in 1950, has reached the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The next 2+2 Dialog is scheduled to take place in Indonesia in 2026.