Indonesia and Australia Cement Defence Ties with Bilateral Treaty

Indonesia and Australia finalized a new bilateral defence treaty to enhance military cooperation. Indonesian president-elect Prabowo Subianto met with Australian officials to discuss the agreement, which aims to improve interoperability and joint exercises. The pact is scheduled to be signed soon during Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles' visit to Jakarta.

Indonesia and Australia on Tuesday finalized a new bilateral defence treaty aimed at enhancing the neighboring nations' military cooperation. This landmark agreement will permit the two countries to operate their militaries in each other's territories.

The treaty was agreed upon following a meeting between Indonesian president-elect and defence minister Prabowo Subianto and Australian officials at the country's Parliament earlier Tuesday. The agreement marks a significant step in the bilateral relationship amid growing tensions with China.

The defence pact is expected to be formally signed within days, coinciding with the visit of Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles to Jakarta. 'This agreement will provide for much greater interoperability between our defense forces,' Marles told reporters, underscoring its national security significance.

(With inputs from agencies.)