Japan’s Natuna port proposal highlights Indonesia’s balancing act on China
Japan’s proposed port upgrades in Indonesia’s Natuna Islands reflect Tokyo’s push to bolster South China Sea security without building an overt military footprint. However, analysts stress that the move does not mean Jakarta is siding with Japan in its efforts to contain Beijing.
The expanding partnership includes joint defence industry development, intelligence cooperation and expanded military exercises in strategic waterways.
Citing Japanese government sources, Kyodo News reported earlier this month that Tokyo was planning to use its official development assistance to help upgrade Indonesia’s fishing ports to allow patrol vessels to operate in more areas.