Crafting a Strategic Vision: A New Era of U.S.-Indonesia Relations

In the 12 years since its transition to democracy, Indonesia has emerged not only as a powerful political and economic actor in Southeast Asia, but as an important player on the global stage. A new strategic partnership between the United States and the world’s third largest democracy is essential to both nations. As the United States and Indonesia negotiate the bilateral Comprehensive Partnership Agreement, report author Abraham Denmark recommends strengthening economic and security cooperation between the two countries while helping Indonesia build capacity to contribute to regional and global challenges like climate change, economic integration and increased security cooperation. Also included in this report are chapters by Rizal Sukma, one of Indonesia's leading strategists, and Christine Parthemore, a fellow at CNAS. Dr. Sukma lays out a vision of the U.S.-Indonesia relationship. Parthemore explores the natural security issues Indonesia faces and proposes areas of cooperation to address mutual interests and concerns.