Trust in the US subsequently diminished in Indonesia, especially in the military.14 The PRC’s approach to the crisis was more pragmatic, prioritising the bilateral relationship. [...] Issues Opportunities that might generate tension, such as the Natuna Islands in the South China Sea or the PRC’s treatment of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang, have not caused and tensions in the significant damage to the relationship. [...] His speech at the 2022 Shangri- La Dialogue was publicised in the PRC, quoting him saying: “We are convinced that the leaders of China will stand up to their responsibility with wisdom and benevolence.”36 August 2023 5 The Natuna Islands The way the PRC approaches the South China Sea issue with Indonesia is different from the way it approaches disputes with other Southeast Asian countries. [...] However, at the same time, the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investments was careful to link the importance of Indonesia’s exclusive economic zones to the economy, not to sovereignty.39 He expressed appreciation for the PRC’s efforts in reducing the number of fishing vessels in the area. [...] As countries such as Indonesia seek to cooperate with both the PRC and the US when it suits their interests, the PRC can be more agile in offering more substantial economic opportunities.50 Instead of seeing Indonesia as a passive target in a geopolitical tug-of-war What does this mean between the US and the PRC, Australia should support Indonesia in becoming a regional and global player in its ow.
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