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Xi’s reelection a win for Indonesia heading into dire straits
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo expressed hope for the future of Indonesia-China ties as analysts envision continuity in the two countries’ economic partnership following Xi Jinping’s reelection as the political and military leader of China.
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President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo (left) greets his host, Chinese President Xi Jinping, during their bilateral meeting at Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, on July 26, 2022. (Presidential Secretariat's Press Bureau/Laily Rachev)
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ndonesia’s determination to maintain close ties with China may bear fruit following the unprecedented third-term reelection of President Xi Jinping to China’s political and military leadership, buoyed by what analysts believe to be the promise of continuity ahead of a “bleak” year.
Xi’s China has become one of Indonesia’s largest trade and investment partners, earning it a “comprehensive strategic partnership” while also igniting fears Jakarta may willingly turn a blind eye on the unsavory aspects of the diplomatic relationship.
Xi was reelected as the general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party’s Central Committee for a third five-year term on Sunday, paving the way for him to secure a third term as China’s external-facing president. He was also reappointed head of China’s Central Military Commission.
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo congratulated Xi for his reelection and expressed hopes that bilateral relations would continue on good terms and bring more investment into the country. He tweeted his praise, saying Indonesia looks forward to strengthening the partnership.
“Congratulations to President Xi Jinping on his reelection as General Secretary of the CPC [Communist Party of China]. Looking forward to working together in further strengthening the Indonesia-China partnership and promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond,” the President said on Monday.
The early commendation itself is an oddity, considering Xi has yet to officially reprise the presidency, and appears to signal close rapport among the leaders. With his third term in the pocket, Xi may yet impart some wisdom to Jokowi after several failed attempts to extend his own presidential tenure beyond the two-term limit.
Besides Jokowi, Investment Minister Bahlil Lahadalia also lauded Xi’s triumph, saying that the leaders maintain “good communications” with one another and that Xi’s reelection would only improve relations with Indonesia.
