Jakarta. The US government is seeking an “efficient” diplomacy with Indonesia amid reports that Washington is mulling closing its post in the North Sumatran capital of Medan.

News wire Reuters reported that the US Department of State had notified Congress of shutting down some foreign missions, citing unnamed sources familiar with the notice. The decades-old US consulate in Medan is among those affected. The consulate acts as a regional branch outside the embassy in Indonesia’s capital Jakarta. 

A US Department of State spokesperson did not confirm nor deny the reported closures.

“The department is committed to following the Congressional Notification procedures, including post closures. We have nothing further to report at this time,” the spokesperson said in an email to the Jakarta Globe on Tuesday.

“We are focused on ensuring our diplomatic footprint is efficient, effective, and delivers results for the American people.”

The White House Office of Management and Budget had previously urged cuts to 30 overseas posts. Supporters of the plan had cited cost reasons. The US has operated a Medan consulate since 1949 to boost trade and investments, among others. Washington’s rival China also runs a consulate in the city.

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to the Globe’s request for comments, including on whether this would sour bilateral ties.

However, relations have seen some ups and downs in recent years, with US President Donald Trump’s persistent tariff threats being a major obstacle.

Trump recently issued a fresh wave of tariffs on Indonesia, although the 10% levy is lower than some of Jakarta’s regional peers. Another highlight was Trump’s meeting with his Indonesian counterpart Prabowo Subianto in February, where they agreed to beef up ties.

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