Indonesia and Australia finalize new bilateral defense treaty
Indonesia and Australia have finalized a new bilateral defense treaty that will enhance the neighboring nations’ ability to operate their militaries in each other’s territory
By ROD McGUIRK
Published - Aug 20, 2024, 03:14 AM ET
Last Updated - Aug 20, 2024, 03:14 AM EDT
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Indonesia and Australia on Tuesday finalized a new bilateral defense treaty that will enhance the neighboring nations' ability to operate their militaries in each other's territory.
The agreement was reached as Indonesian president-elect Prabowo Subianto, who also serves as defense minister, met with Australian officials at the country's Parliament earlier Tuesday.
The bilateral relationship is becoming increasingly important to Australians in face of growing tensions with China. New Australian prime ministers typically make Jakarta one of their first overseas destinations.
The pact will be signed within days, when Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles visits Jakarta.
