Australia, Indonesia boost defence, trade cooperation

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on defence cooperation and global trade on Thursday, describing Jakarta as an “indispensable partner” on his first international visit since his re-election.

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Albanese, sworn into office on Tuesday after his centre-left Labor party won an increased majority in parliament, said his visit showed the priority Canberra placed on defence and economic ties with Jakarta.

"Indonesia is an indispensable partner for Australia," he said in opening remarks, meeting with Prabowo and ministers at the Presidential Palace.

He urged Prabowo to forge closer defence ties with Australia, after an agreement was struck last year covering maritime security, counter-terrorism and disaster response.

"Security is built on the sovereignty of every nation and the rules that govern all nations," he said when the two leaders addressed the media after their meeting.

Indonesia committed to completing the ratification of the defence agreement, Prabowo said.

"We will continue discussing the opportunities to improve and increase cooperation in defence sector," he said.

Trade and investment, food security, energy transition and critical minerals were also discussed, Prabowo said.