What do Turkiye and Indonesia want from bilateral talks?
Turkiye and Indonesia aim to deepen cooperation in defence, energy and emerging technologies following high-level talks in Jakarta, as both countries push to expand economic ties in a bid to reach a …
Turkiye and Indonesia aim to deepen cooperation in defence, energy and emerging technologies following high-level talks in Jakarta, as both countries
Read Full Story at Al Jazeera →Why This Matters
The meeting between Turkiye and Indonesia signals a strategic pivot for two of the world's most dynamic Muslim-majority economies, both seeking to leverage their geopolitical positioning amid shifting global supply chains. Beyond defense and energy, the discussions underscore a shared ambition to become regional hubs for high-tech manufacturing and renewable energy, potentially reshaping Southeast Asia's economic landscape.
Background Context
Turkiye's defense industry has gained prominence in recent years, with Ankara positioning itself as a middle power capable of exporting drones, naval vessels, and armored vehicles—competencies Indonesia seeks to integrate into its modernization programs. Meanwhile, Indonesia's vast nickel reserves and Turkiye's refining expertise create a natural synergy for the electric vehicle battery supply chain, a sector both nations are keen to dominate.
What Happens Next
Expect concrete agreements on defense procurement and joint ventures in clean energy, with Turkiye likely pushing for more Indonesian defense orders following Ankara's recent success in Africa. The energy dialogue may also extend to hydrogen and nuclear cooperation, though financing and regulatory hurdles could delay rapid progress. Watch for follow-up visits by industry delegations in the coming months.
Bigger Picture
This engagement reflects a broader trend of non-Western middle powers forming alternative economic blocs, bypassing traditional trade routes in favor of intra-regional partnerships. As Western dominance in global manufacturing wanes, Turkiye and Indonesia are positioning themselves as critical nodes in a multipolar supply chain network, with defense and energy serving as key leverage points.
