Japan's Natuna port proposal tests Indonesia's China balancing act

Japan has proposed port upgrades in Indonesia's Natuna Islands to bolster South China Sea security without an overt military footprint, part of expanding defense cooperation following Tokyo's easing of lethal weapons export restrictions. Analysts stress Jakarta is not aligning with Tokyo against Beijing, reflecting Indonesia's careful balancing between the two powers. The move signals Japan's growing security role in Southeast Asia and could complicate regional dynamics.