Prabowo Subianto advocated for the ratification of five bilateral defense deals with Cambodia, India, France, the UAE, and Brazil during a parliamentary meeting. The agreements aim to enhance Indonesia’s defense capabilities by leveraging the advanced technologies of partner nations. The session concluded with agreement to advance the legislation to a plenary meeting by the DPR.
In a significant move towards enhancing Indonesia’s defense capabilities, Prabowo Subianto, the Minister of Defense, pressed for the ratification of five bilateral defense agreements during a meeting with Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta. The proposed agreements involve partnerships with Cambodia, India, France, the United Arab Emirates, and Brazil. Prabowo, who is set to assume the presidency on October 20, 2024, highlighted the importance of these agreements, noting that the partners possess reliable defense technologies crucial to bolstering Indonesia’s military prowess. During the discussions, he emphasized the strategic significance of collaboration with Cambodia, stating, “As an ASEAN member, it is in our interest to protect and support our partners within ASEAN to grow stronger and become more self-reliant.” Additionally, he acknowledged the value of partnerships with India and France, both of which possess nuclear capabilities, further underscoring the necessity of these defense ties. Prabowo extended his appreciation to the Commission I for their diligence in facilitating the deliberation process for these legislative measures. The outcome of the meeting resulted in a consensus between the parliament and the government to advance the five defense cooperation bills to a plenary session for formal legislation. Present at the meeting were notable figures including Supratman Andi Agtas, the Minister of Law and Human Rights, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Pahala Mansury, and Meutya Hafid, the Speaker of DPR’s Commission I, along with her deputies. The collaborative effort among these officials signifies a united front in fortifying Indonesia’s defense strategies.
The push for ratifying defense agreements comes in the context of Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and foster strategic partnerships within the region and beyond. Bilateral defense cooperation is crucial in enhancing Indonesia’s defense posture amidst growing geopolitical tensions and evolving security dynamics. By forging closer ties with nations possessing advanced defense technologies, Indonesia aims to enhance regional stability and self-reliance in defense matters. The engagement with ASEAN member countries and key global players aligns with Indonesia’s strategic objectives of promoting cooperation and collective security initiatives in a rapidly changing international landscape.
In conclusion, the meeting convened by Minister Prabowo Subianto marks a critical step towards ratifying important defense agreements that will not only strengthen Indonesia’s military capabilities but also reinforce partnerships with influential nations. The acknowledgment of ASEAN’s collective strength and the strategic imperatives involving nuclear-capable countries such as India and France reflect Indonesia’s proactive approach in securing its defense interests and enhancing regional cooperation.
Original Source: en.antaranews.com
