Indonesia and India Strengthen Defence Ties at Key Dialogue

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin emphasized the importance of longstanding ties with India during the third Defence Ministers’ Dialogue held in New Delhi on November 26-27, 2023. The minister expressed optimism about enhancing bilateral relations and deepening defence cooperation between the two nations.

Sjamsoeddin acknowledged the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation, stating, “It is a great honor to participate in this dialogue to further deepen the longstanding relations between our two countries, India and Indonesia.” He specifically thanked India for the exceptional reception given to the Indonesian National Defence Forces during the Republic Day Parade and conveyed well wishes from Indonesian President Prabowo.

Strengthening Strategic Partnerships

During the dialogue, Sjamsoeddin highlighted the significance of defence cooperation as a cornerstone of the Indonesia-India relationship. He remarked, “Indonesia and India are not only maritime neighbors but also comprehensive strategic partners.” The minister noted that historical, cultural, and religious ties have long bound the two countries together.

Reflecting on past engagements, he pointed out that the visit of India’s Defence Minister to Jakarta in 2018 revitalized their defence cooperation through the signing of the Defence Cooperation Agreement. The dialogue in 2020 further solidified their commitment to strengthening collaboration in the defence industry and technology sectors, with both sides emphasizing the need to translate discussions into tangible outcomes.

Sjamsoeddin expressed confidence that the current dialogue would yield concrete results that enhance trust and advance their strategic partnership.

Shared Vision for the Indo-Pacific

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh co-chaired the meeting and underscored the potential for cooperation between India and Indonesia as two democracies in the Indo-Pacific region. Singh noted, “India and Indonesia share civilizational ties which go back thousands of years.” He emphasized their mutual commitment to values such as pluralism, inclusiveness, and the rule of law, which guide contemporary relations.

During the discussions, the ministers reviewed regional security developments, addressed multilateral issues, and explored new avenues for enhancing bilateral defence cooperation. The Indonesian minister’s visit reflects the growing momentum in defence engagement between the two nations, signaling their shared commitment to expanding partnerships.

The dialogue also coincides with ongoing negotiations for a significant deal involving the acquisition of the BrahMos cruise missile. Sources indicated that nearly all procedural steps have been completed, pending approval from Russia to finalize the contract. This potential agreement marks a substantial move for India’s indigenous defence industry, as the country seeks to expand its missile exports beyond previous sales to the Philippines.

In summary, the recent Defence Ministers’ Dialogue signifies a pivotal moment for Indonesia and India, reinforcing their commitment to mutual security and cooperation in an increasingly complex regional landscape.