Prabowo Supports Increased Joint Military Exercises Between Indonesia and Thailand

President Prabowo Subianto supports increasing the frequency of joint exercises between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Royal Thai Armed Forces, as conveyed during a bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Monday. During the meeting, President Prabowo stated that cooperation between the two nations must be future-oriented and mutually beneficial, contributing to ensuring a stronger and more stable ASEAN. “In my opinion, we must strengthen our defence and security cooperation. I believe we should increase the number and level of joint training between our two armed forces. We must enhance the exchange of our officers in training and education,” said President Prabowo. The Head of State also expressed hope that the two countries can expand economic cooperation through trade, investment, and food and energy security. He further encouraged collaboration in the digital technology sector while strengthening connectivity and closer ties between the peoples of both nations. “By tightening cooperation in these areas, we can strengthen our bilateral partnership while contributing to the peace, stability, and prosperity of our region,” Prabowo stated. In addition to discussing enhanced bilateral ties, President Prabowo noted his long-standing personal closeness with King Maha Vajiralongkorn. He also conveyed birthday wishes to the King through Prime Minister Charnvirakul. Following a tête-à-tête at Merdeka Palace, President Prabowo and Prime Minister Charnvirakul jointly led a bilateral meeting. The two leaders then witnessed the signing of several cooperation documents between the two countries. Afterwards, they delivered a joint press statement. The final agenda of the Thai Prime Minister’s official visit was a dinner hosted by President Prabowo for the Prime Minister and his delegation at the Palace.