A Mutual Security Treaty was signed by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Australian Prime Minister (PM) Anthony Albanese in Jakarta on Friday (Feb. 6).

Jakarta (Indonesia Window) – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Australian Prime Minister (PM) Anthony Albanese have shared commitment to further strengthening their strategic partnership by signing a Mutual Security Treaty.

President Prabowo conveyed this shared commitment during a joint press conference at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Friday (Feb. 6), the Indonesian Cabinet Secretariat said in its website as quoted by Indonesia Window on Saturday.   

"This mutual security treaty reflects the determination of both countries to continue working closely to maintain their respective national security and to contribute significantly to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region," the head of state explained.

The president said that for Indonesia, this reflects a firm commitment to the principles of good neighborliness, and Indonesia's free and active foreign policy.

The close geographical proximity of Indonesia and Australia makes the two countries destined to live side by side, and therefore, their bilateral relationship is built on a foundation of mutual trust and good faith.

"Indonesia wants to be friends with everyone, and we don't want to have any enemies. Therefore, we believe this agreement will be an important pillar for stability and cooperation in our region," he said.

Meanwhile, PM Albanese stated that the signing of the agreement was a continuation of a long process that began with a bilateral meeting in Sydney in November last year.

According to Albanese, the agreement builds on the historical foundation of defense cooperation that has spanned three decades.

Albanese pointed out that the agreement reflects the close friendship, partnership, and deep trust between the two countries under the comprehensive strategic partnership,

"Today, I am very pleased to sign this agreement with the President. It represents a historic moment in our nations' relationship and a recognition that the best way to secure peace and stability in our region is by acting together," he added.

Albanese considered that the agreement demonstrates the strength and depth of trust between Australia and Indonesia.

The agreement is seen as a significant expansion of existing security and defense cooperation.

A series of new defense cooperation initiatives, he said, reflect growing trust and strategic ambition, including an offer to create a new position for a senior Indonesian officer in the Australian Defence Force.

Supporting the development of joint defense training facilities is to enhance Indonesia's ability to conduct joint exercises with its partners, including Australia, and to expand military education exchanges between the two countries’ militaries to build relationships and enhance understanding between next generations of military leaders, he said.

Reporting by Indonesia Window