RI, Singapore to hold joint military training

JAKARTA: Indonesia and Singapore have agreed to enhance military cooperation, especially in the training of military officials, and to increase information sharing to secure the Mallaca Strait.

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Singaporean Minister of Defense Teo Chee Hean discussed on Thursday measures to develop defense relations.

"We will have pilot trainings together and other facilities so they can grow together ... that is a very good way to have a stronger relationship," Teo said.

He also commented on the ongoing joint patrol to secure the Mallaca Strait, saying that it could still be developed further "including how we can bring in like-minded parties to strengthen the cooperation that we have in the Mallacca Strait".

"That is for each country to explore, so that we will be able to improve our vessels and capacity building," the minister said after the meeting.-- JP