Indonesia is largely covered in the press in Australia these days – mainly about the three B’s – boats, beef and Bali. In other words, illegal immigration, live cattle exports and drug smuggling normally dominates.
Trade
President Jokowi will have the treaty in hand when he arrives in Australia this weekend on a state visit.
There’s no doubt that, despite the dominance of security issues and geo-politics, historically, Indonesia and Australia are long standing economic partners.
The latest interaction spotlighted ongoing efforts by both countries to manage the defense aspect of their relationship.
Despite being the largest Muslim population, Indonesia manages to avoid any major confrontation and play safely between conflicting countries in the region.
Since the last standoff between China and Indonesia in 2016, Indonesia has been increasing its defence, but not to the extent that it has deterred China from causing problems.
The Indonesian government is set to implement a new import regulation that will lower the maximum value of tax-free imported goods at the end of this month.
Indonesia is often presented as one of Australia’s most important neighbours and strategic allies, with formal diplomatic relations between the two nations marking a 70-year milestone last month.
