Indonesia was one of the first countries to start negotiations with the United States over the “Liberation Day” tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. However, the prospects of a stable deal that could be accepted by both countries are hazy. Key takeaways: Jakarta must accept the possibility that the US might not view tariff negotiations… Continue reading Deal or no deal: What Indonesia should know when negotiating the US Liberation Day tariffs
The United States’ growing emphasis on fortifying the second island chain in the Indo-Pacific has sparked concerns about potential vulnerabilities in the first chain, prompting a reevaluation of regional defense strategies and alliances. Key takeaways: The US pivot towards the second island chain reflects its broader strategic recalibration in the Indo-Pacific in response to China’s… Continue reading US shifts priority to Indo-Pacific’s “second island chain”—what does it mean for Taiwan?
Indonesia’s recent strategic manoeuvres reflect a nuanced foreign policy that extends beyond an alignment with China. However, under new geopolitical dynamics, Indonesia might be hard-pressed to maintain its non-aligned policy. Key takeaways: Despite being touted as Indonesia’s embodiment of a ‘Global South’ orientation and “Free and Active” foreign policy, Jakarta must remain cognizant of the… Continue reading Explaining Indonesia’s ‘multi-alignment’ policy under Prabowo
The US reopening of a cultural center in Myanmar’s second-largest city signals Washington’s bid to counter China’s influence through soft power diplomacy. Key takeaways: The US reopening of the Jefferson Center in Mandalay demonstrates its strategic adjustment to rebuild influence in Myanmar through informal channels while maintaining sanctions. The choice of Mandalay, where Chinese influence… Continue reading What the reopening of an American Cultural Center tells us about US Myanmar Policy
