iscover
Australia and Indonesia are working towards a stronger defence relationship, with an increased bilateral and regional information sharing commitment in the works.
Minister for Defence Marise Payne met with the Indonesian Minister of Defense Ryamizard Ryacudu and Panglima TNI – Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces – Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto in Jakarta this week with discussions centering on reaffirming the nations' defence relationship and shared commitment to working together on maritime security and counter-terrorism in the region.
"These meetings offer an opportunity to discuss the many defence engagements Australia and Indonesia have taken part in this year and to consider how to expand and deepen the relationship, given our shared security challenges," Minister Payne said.
"As the terrible events in Sumatra and Surabaya remind us, our continued co-operation on countering terrorism in the region is increasingly important.
"Australia and Indonesia will continue to work together by increasing bilateral and regional information sharing, including the sharing of lessons learned by our defence forces on recent operations."
While in Jakarata, Minister Payne also addressed students at Lemhannas, Indonesia’s leading whole-of-government education institution.
"The Australian Defence College and Lemhannas share a close relationship, which contributes to the professional development of both our defence forces," the minister said.
"I was very pleased to have the opportunity to address students at Lemhannas, who are Indonesia’s future government, security and defence leaders."
Want to see more stories from trusted news sources?
Make Defence Connect a preferred news source on Google.
Click here to add Defence Connect as a preferred news source.