Indonesia looks to Xi ahead of hard times

The country’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 unsavoury aspects of the diplomatic relationship.