ABSTRACT
In the wake of the British withdrawal and a reduced US presence in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is emerging as a potential great power and natural leader in the area. It has the capability to play this role as a result of its large population, vast and untapped natural resources, cultural identity, and strategic geographic location bridging two continents and two oceans. It should be noted that although Indonesia's top military and civilian leaders have similar views on the basic principles of Indonesia's foreign policy, there are differences among them concerning some aspects of the objectives and future trends of this policy. The archipelago principle was explained to the author by Professor Mochtar Kusumaatmadja, who is now Indonesia's minister of justice. The special geographical position of Indonesia creates special needs and imperatives relating to its national existence. The principle of independence from military pacts does not deter Indonesia from seeking military cooperation when necessary.
