CHINA, RAKYAT NEWS – China has expressed its readiness to engage in negotiations with Indonesia regarding overlapping maritime claims in the South China Sea.

The announcement was made by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian during a press conference in Beijing on November 11, 2024.

Lin emphasized that China is committed to working closely with Indonesia to implement the important agreements reached between the leaders of both nations. This includes ensuring that bilateral cooperation yields mutually beneficial outcomes as quickly as possible.

The remarks come after the Joint Statement issued by China and Indonesia following a bilateral meeting between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Chinese President Xi Jinping on November 9, 2024.

The statement highlighted a shared goal to foster stronger maritime cooperation, particularly in areas with overlapping claims, and to establish a Joint Steering Committee aimed at enhancing this cooperation.

The two countries have agreed to work together in a spirit of mutual respect, equality, and pragmatism. This approach aligns with international law and the regulations of both countries, including Indonesia’s stance on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982.

Indonesia has firmly stated that this new agreement does not imply recognition of China’s “Nine-Dash Line” claims, which Jakarta maintains lack international legal standing and do not affect its sovereignty in the North Natuna Sea.

Lin Jian further clarified China’s position on the South China Sea, asserting that the country’s claims are based on historical rights and consistent with international law. Since 1948, China has officially declared its “Nine-Dash Line” and reaffirmed its sovereignty over the area.

Despite the ongoing maritime dispute, China stressed its willingness to prioritize cooperation with Indonesia on maritime development. Lin stated that both nations aim to overcome differences and promote stability and cooperation in the region.

The agreements signed between China and Indonesia also included a set of technical cooperation guidelines (TCG) aimed at boosting the fisheries sector. The TCG will help improve the welfare of Indonesian fishermen, facilitate joint ventures, and enhance fisheries-related infrastructure such as ports and processing facilities.

Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, Indonesia’s Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, highlighted the importance of these agreements in strengthening food security and providing economic opportunities for local communities. This collaboration aligns with Indonesia’s regulations on maritime governance and international maritime law.

These developments mark a significant step forward in Sino-Indonesian relations, particularly in terms of maritime cooperation, despite the ongoing complexities surrounding territorial claims in the South China Sea. (Uki Ruknuddin)