Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Indonesia maintains a neutral stance amid rising tensions between the United States and China, fueled by US reciprocal tariffs, Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani Indrawati confirmed during an online press conference in Jakarta on Thursday (24/4/2025).

“Indonesia, as the largest country in ASEAN and in its relations with both the US and China, maintains a neutral, respected, and strategic position,” she said. “We must preserve this strong bargaining power.”

Minister Sri Mulyani also explained about recent bilateral talks with Chinese counterparts, reaffirming Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening ties. The US has likewise expressed interest in further bolstering its relationship with Indonesia, which Indrawati believes enhances the country's bargaining power.

Deputy Chair of the National Economic Committee Mari Elka Pangestu has earlier emphasized the need for diplomatic engagement with both the US and China, a view echoed in ongoing technical discussions with the United States Trade Representative.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)