Indonesia has stated that it does not have a policy granting unrestricted overflight access to foreign parties, including the United States.
This statement comes after reports circulated that Washington had submitted a proposal seeking permission for its military aircraft to fly over Indonesian territory.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the proposal is still under internal discussion among ministries and has not yet become a final decision.
The government emphasized that any form of international cooperation must remain under Indonesia’s sovereignty and follow national legal mechanisms.
Indonesia also stated that it would ensure any policy does not have a negative impact on regional stability.
According to the government, the issue of overflight permits is not a central part of Indonesia-U.S. defense cooperation.
Previously, Reuters reported that the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs had cautioned the Ministry of Defense to exercise caution regarding the proposal.
Concerns arose because the move was seen as potentially dragging Indonesia into the South China Sea conflict and being exploited to increase U.S. military surveillance activities in the region.
Overall, the government reaffirmed that Indonesia’s position remains grounded in national interests and the principle of a free and active foreign policy.