Maritime Diplomacy in the ASEAN Maritime Security Strategic Partnership

The concept of Dynamic Equilibrium in regional diplomacy, particularly within Indonesia's defense diplomacy, revolves around establishing a dynamic balance among the forces involved, avoiding absolute dominance by any power. 

Initially formulated by former Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa, this approach seeks stability in the ASEAN region through a harmonious blend of power, cooperation, and interdependence. The emphasis is on inclusivity, encouraging major powers' participation in cooperative frameworks for the greater good of the region.

Central to the Dynamic Equilibrium concept are principles such as preventing a single dominant power, promoting neutrality, acting as a mediator in conflicts, engaging major global powers for regional stability, prioritizing peaceful diplomacy, and creating a solid regional foundation. Indonesia has actively applied this concept in addressing various regional issues, including the South China Sea conflict, ASEAN maritime security cooperation, and participation in international forums.

The ASEAN Strategic Partnership on Maritime Security is a significant aspect of this approach, aiming for comprehensive cooperation among ASEAN member states and external partners in political, security, economic, and environmental realms. The focus is on enhancing integration, solidarity, and identity within ASEAN while addressing traditional and non-traditional maritime security threats. Various mechanisms, such as the ASEAN Maritime Forum and ASEAN Coast Guard Forum, facilitate this collaboration, involving partner countries like the United States, China, Japan, India, Australia, and the European Union.

Maritime diplomacy, a key pillar of Indonesia's World Maritime Axis vision, employs traditional diplomatic tools and advanced technology to safeguard national interests at sea. The success of Indonesia's maritime diplomacy is evident in resolving the crisis in the North Natuna Sea with China in 2016 and settling the maritime border dispute with the Philippines in 2014. These achievements demonstrate the effectiveness of the Dynamic Equilibrium concept in maintaining sovereign rights, fostering cooperation, and promoting peaceful dispute resolution.

While the Dynamic Equilibrium concept has positively influenced ASEAN maritime diplomacy, challenges persist, including major state competition and internal coordination issues. Strengthening maritime diplomacy at both multilateral and bilateral levels is essential for effective implementation. Encouraging improved policy frameworks, synchronized regulations, and strategic partnerships with Indo-Pacific countries will further enhance regional maritime cooperation, contributing to stability and prosperity in Southeast Asia.