Opinion | China is building up its military. Can Indonesia step up to maintain regional security?
- Despite Xi’s claim of peaceful development, a stronger Chinese military presence will have an impact on Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia
- Indonesia can boost partnerships within Asean members and other countries to maintain regional security amid tensions in Asia-Pacific region
Xi has expressed his determination to defend China’s sovereignty, security and development interests. In 2017, he called for revolutionising the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) into a world-class military by 2035. Last year, Xi said the PLA’s transformation had to be accomplished by the 100th anniversary of the People’s Republic in August 2029. Given the rapid development of China’s military, especially the modernisation of its defence equipment, the goal looks to be in sight.
Its third aircraft carrier, Fujian, was launched on June 17 last year. The Chinese navy now has the same number of ships, if not more, than its US counterpart. A study published in September last year by US-based research institute the Centre for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments estimated that by 2030, China’s naval strength would increase by 40 per cent.
Despite the military build-up, Xi has sought to convince the world of his commitment to a peaceful environment, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. He shared a vision of a foreign policy aimed at upholding world peace and communities with a shared future, and the assurance that China’s development would only be for peaceful purposes.
In contrast to previous speeches, however, the one he gave at the 20th congress was also underscored by a firmer emphasis against hegemony, Cold War mentality and unilateralism.
