Indonesia, Australia strengthen defence collaboration

Indonesia is committed to finalising the ratification process of the defence cooperation agreement that was agreed upon last year, and continuing discussions on ways to improve and enhance collaboration in this area, said Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

Jakarta (VNA) – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on May 15 agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of defence and expand market access for Indonesia’s micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

Speaking at a joint press conference in Jakarta, President Prabowo emphasised that Australia is not only a neighbouring country but also a strategic partner of Indonesia. As such, several agreements signed across various sectors will continue to be implemented.

In the field of defence, Indonesia is committed to finalising the ratification process of the defence cooperation agreement that was agreed upon last year, and continuing discussions on ways to improve and enhance collaboration in this area, he said.

On the economic front, the President encouraged stronger cooperation in trade and investment, and called for Australia’s participation in strengthening Indonesia’s agriculture and fisheries sectors, and MSMEs. He expressed his hope that Indonesia’s fruits and aquatic products will increasingly meet international market standards, including those of Australia.

Inviting Australia to engage more deeply in economic cooperation amid current global uncertainties, the Indonesian leader stressed that in today’s volatile global economic environment, the relationship between Indonesia and Australia is becoming increasingly important and will bring greater benefits to both countries and their peoples.

The two leaders also discussed opportunities for cooperation in food security, energy transition, critical minerals, and the development of the electric vehicle ecosystem.

Notably, President Prabowo emphasised that his government will pursue the implementation of bilateral commitments, including the finalisation of the 2025–2029 Action Plan of the Indonesia – Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement. This plan aligns with Indonesia’s transformational vision “Asta Cita” and Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040./.

VNA