Prabowo Subianto, the Indonesian Minister of Defense, had a bilateral meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Australian Deputy Prime Minister, who also serves as the Minister of Defense, Richard Marles, in Canberra, Australia, on Tuesday (20/8).
The discussion focused on defense cooperation between the two countries. They agreed to renew their cooperation through the “Defence Cooperation Agreement” (DCA) to strengthen bilateral relations.
“We have made significant progress on the DCA. We have resolved several legal matters, which will be beneficial,” said Prabowo.
Albanese highlighted that this agreement would enhance defense cooperation through dialogue, interoperability, and field practices, serving as a crucial reference for stability in the region.
Marles mentioned that finalizing the new defense agreement opens doors for expanding joint military exercises.
“Australia and Indonesia will collaborate more closely than ever before, increasing the scope and complexity of joint exercises to address regional challenges together,” he said.
The meeting was also attended by high-ranking Australian officials, including Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Finance Minister Jim Chalmers, Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke, and others, along with Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Penny Williams.
