China Ready to Expand Defense Cooperation with Indonesia, Says Dong Jun

Dragon Media News Desk

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun said China is ready to further expand defense and military cooperation with Indonesia and explore new areas of bilateral collaboration.

Dong made the remarks on Friday during the Second Ministerial Meeting of the China-Indonesia Joint Foreign and Defense Ministerial Dialogue in Jakarta.

He said China is willing to work with Indonesia from a strategic perspective to advance cooperation in defense and military development. According to Dong, stronger cooperation in these areas could provide solid security support for the national development of both countries.

Dong emphasized the growing importance of mutual trust, strategic communication and practical defense cooperation amid changing regional and international security conditions. He indicated that the two countries could build on their existing relationship by expanding military exchanges, training, capacity development and cooperation in other relevant fields.

The joint foreign and defense ministerial dialogue provides a framework for China and Indonesia to discuss diplomatic, security and defense issues within a single strategic mechanism. During the second meeting in Jakarta, both sides exchanged views on bilateral relations, regional security and opportunities for deeper defense cooperation.

Earlier at the same meeting, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on China and Indonesia to pool the strength of developing countries and promote broader cooperation among the Global South. Wang also stressed the importance of carrying forward the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and the Bandung Spirit.

China and Indonesia already maintain extensive cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure and energy. In recent years, the two countries have also expanded political, security and defense dialogue.

The latest ministerial meeting in Jakarta reflects efforts by both sides to broaden China-Indonesia relations beyond economic cooperation and further institutionalize their partnership in the security and defense sectors.