Indonesia and Philippines strengthen defence cooperation

The agreement was reached during the 5th Philippine-Indonesia Military Cooperation Meeting on April 8.

TNI spokesperson Major General Aulia Dwi Nasrullah said on Friday that the two sides discussed various areas of cooperation, including joint military exercises, personnel exchanges for military education, and knowledge-sharing on military technology.

“Through close cooperation, Indonesia and the Philippines are expected to better address regional challenges and promote a peaceful, secure, and prosperous region,” he said.

He added that the partnership is expected to be implemented effectively and sustainably.

On a separate occasion, AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. said his side is seeking to expand logistics cooperation with Indonesia, according to the Philippine News Agency.

“We would like to explore possibilities for both countries to coordinate and collaborate on military logistics,” Brawner said in Quezon City on Friday.

He added that the two countries also agreed to enhance joint operations, particularly coordinated patrols in the Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea, as well as increase intelligence and training exchanges.

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Translator: Walda Marison, Nabil Ihsan