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Strategic importance of US vice president's visit
The US is committed to maintaining its important alliances and interests in the region, as well as strategic partnership with Indonesia.
From Indonesia’s perspective, there is a lot at stake, too.
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Vice President Mike Pence speaks at the Trane Parts and Distribution Center, on March 11, in Louisville, Ky. (AP/Timothy D. Easley)
U
nited States Vice President Mike Pence’s visit to Indonesia and neighboring countries on April 15 to 24 could not have come at a more critical time. The tour is Pence’s first official trip to the Asia Pacific and the choice of countries signals a crystal clear message: The US is committed to maintaining its important alliances and interests in the region, as well as strategic partnership with Indonesia.
From Indonesia’s perspective, there is a lot at stake, too.
Pence’s visit not only provides an opportunity to recalibrate Indonesia’s strategic goals in Indonesia-US bilateral relations but also provides an opportunity to engage in constructive talks with the new US administration and gain a better understanding of President Donald Trump’s “America First” foreign policy.
There are three key areas of interest that Indonesia should address. First, bilateral trade. Second, regional security. Third, Indonesia’s distinct role in bridging the US with the Islamic world.
Although there have been significant economic paradigm shifts since Trump took office, Washington has not imposed a clear-cut trade policy projection toward Indonesia, nor Asia. Trade relations between Indonesia and the US have remained relatively steady and fairly favorable toward Indonesia.
In President Trump’s eyes, it may be too favorable.
Pence’s visit comes on the heels of the signing of two presidential executive orders that aim to fulfill a key campaign promise — reduce the US’ massive trade deficit. To do so, Trump has instructed his Cabinet to conduct a comprehensive study to identify “abusive trade practices” by foreign countries that contribute to the US deficit. Of the 16 countries publicly scrutinized, Indonesia was included with a trade surplus value of US$13 billion in 2016.
