Antara, Jakarta – Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin is moving to reinforce bilateral ties with the United States government to deepen future military cooperation.

The initiative was highlighted when Sjafrie hosted United States Ambassador to ASEAN Kevin Kim at the Ministry of Defense office in Central Jakarta on Monday, August 10.

A photograph documenting the meeting was posted to the Instagram account @sjafrie.sjamsoeddin, as cited by news agency Antara on Tuesday. In an accompanying caption, Sjafrie noted that his dialogue with Kim covered a wide range of topics.

"The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on strengthening defense relations and cooperation between Indonesia and the United States, including supporting security, stability, and peace in the region," Sjafrie stated.

During the discussion, Sjafrie also conveyed his appreciation for the long-standing relationship between the two nations.

Indonesia and the United States have routinely engaged in various military collaborations, including joint training exercises and personnel exchanges.

The published photo depicted a warm atmosphere between the defense minister and the diplomat. The session concluded with a handshake between Sjafrie and Kim inside the meeting room.

Following the talks, Minister Sjafrie expressed hope that bilateral relations between Indonesia and the United States will become even stronger and more sustainable.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2117233/indonesia-seeks-stronger-defense-ties-with-u