Vietnam’s bid to boost Indonesia ties reflects ‘enemy to none’ security strategy: analysts

Vietnam’s attempts to elevate ties with Indonesia last week reflect a security strategy of being “an enemy to none”, according to analysts who also say that Hanoi would have more room to manoeuvre with such partnerships and could eye Southeast Asian neighbour Singapore next.

Observers note, however, that such ties are expected to centre less on security so as not to “alarm” China.

Last Friday during a two-day visit to Vietnam, Indonesian president-elect Prabowo Subianto said Vietnam and Indonesia had agreed to elevate their ties to a “comprehensive strategic partnership”.

“For us, Vietnam has always been a great friend,” he declared during a meeting with Vietnamese President and party chief To Lam. “We value this relationship and I am committed to enhance and further this cooperation.”

Indonesia would become the eighth nation, and the first among Asean, or the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership (CSP) with Vietnam.