Prabowo Subianto, Indonesian Minister of Defense, held talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Richard Marles, in Canberra, Australia, on Tuesday (20/8). The meeting focused on discussing defense cooperation between the two countries, with plans to renew the “Defence Cooperation Agreement” (DCA) to strengthen bilateral relations.
Prabowo mentioned that progress has been made on the DCA, with legal details being finalized, which he views as beneficial. Albanese emphasized that this agreement will enhance defense cooperation through dialogue, interoperability, and field practices, serving as a crucial reference for stability in the region.
Marles highlighted that the new defense agreement’s completion opens doors for expanding joint military exercises between Australia and Indonesia. The meeting was attended by several high-ranking Australian officials, including Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Finance Minister Jim Chalmers, Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke, and others.
Overall, the discussions aimed to deepen cooperation and collaboration in tackling regional challenges, signaling a closer working relationship between Australia and Indonesia in the defense sector.
