Indonesia has not reached a joint development agreement with Beijing in the South China Sea, a minister stated

Indonesia has not yet reached a decision regarding any joint development areas with China in the South China Sea, as stated by its foreign minister on Monday. This statement aims to alleviate concerns that a recent agreement with Beijing might undermine Indonesia’s sovereignty.

Last month, Indonesia generated significant attention by issuing a joint statement with China, committing to develop projects “in the overlapping waters claimed by the two countries.” This was widely seen as an unusual acknowledgment of China’s extensive territorial claims in the South China Sea.

China asserts sovereignty over approximately 90% of the waterway through a U-shaped nine-dash line depicted on its maps, which overlaps with the exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of neighboring countries that do not recognize this claim.

An international tribunal ruled in 2016 that China’s claim lacks legal foundation, a conclusion that China disputes.

Foreign Minister Sugiono, who is known by a single name, reiterated to lawmakers on Monday that Jakarta does not acknowledge the Chinese claim and will prioritize its national interests in decision-making.

Sugiono indicated that no specific areas have been identified for joint development with China concerning fishing or resource extraction.

“It is preferable to engage in mutually beneficial partnerships while upholding the fundamental principles that ensure we protect our sovereignty,” he remarked.

Many coastal states in the South China Sea have been hesitant to enter into joint agreements with China, especially in the energy sector, due to concerns that such agreements could be seen as legitimizing Beijing’s expansive claims, which extend up to 1,700 km (1,056 miles) from its coast.

Sugiono mentioned that Indonesia has communicated its joint development plans to the leaders of neighboring countries “to help ease tensions.” Analysts suggest that Indonesia’s agreement with China may signify a shift from its historically non-claimant position in the South China Sea.