China’s increasing presence in the Indian Ocean and its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have significantly altered the geopolitical dynamics in the region. Indonesia, a key player in Southeast Asia, is presented with both opportunities and challenges due to China’s growing influence.

The thesis of this article is that the growing influence of China in the Indian Ocean poses a double-edged challenge for Indonesia. On one hand, it offers significant economic benefits through investments under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). On the other hand, it raises concerns about debt dependency, loss of sovereignty, and maritime security. Given this complex dynamic, Indonesia must adopt a strategic approach to maximize economic gains while safeguarding its national and regional interests. This analysis delves into the diverse effects of China’s impact on Indonesia, focusing on its economic advantages, potential drawbacks, and the strategic measures necessary to navigate this intricate relationship.

China has significantly invested in the Indian Ocean region under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly in countries like Indonesia. The investments mainly focus on infrastructure projects such as ports, railways, and industrial parks, aiming to boost trade connectivity. For Indonesia, which has faced challenges in infrastructure development, these Chinese investments bring much-needed capital and expertise.

Projects like the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway, funded by Chinese loans, exemplify the tangible benefits of this partnership. Improved infrastructure not only boosts economic growth but also positions........

© Eurasia Review