Enhancing India-Indonesia Defence Cooperation

Summary of India-Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue

Event Overview:

• The 3rd India-Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue was co-chaired by India’s Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Indonesia’s Minister of Defense Mr. Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin.
• The dialogue emphasized the importance of a free, open, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Context:

• Recalls the visit of Indonesia's President Mr. Prabowo Subianto as Chief Guest for India's Republic Day in 2025, strengthening ties.
• Highlights participation of 352 Indonesian Armed Forces personnel in the Republic Day Celebrations.

Key Outcomes:

1. Indo-Pacific Security:

   • Both nations reiterated their commitment to a strategic outlook in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing principles of international law and sovereignty.
   • Commitment to the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
   • Cooperation through international frameworks like the Indian Ocean Rim Association.

2. Defence Cooperation:

   • Discussions on enhancing bilateral defence cooperation under the existing Defence Cooperation Agreement and Joint Defence Cooperation Committee.
   • Establishment of a Joint Defence Industry Cooperation Committee proposed by India to focus on:
     • Technology transfer
     • Joint R&D
     • Certification harmonization
     • Supply-chain linkages

3. Military Engagements:

   • Continued military collaborations through joint exercises and officer exchanges, including Super Garuda Shield, Garuda Shakti, Samudra Shakti, and MILAN.
   • Emphasis on shared training programs and interoperability in defense education.

4. Maritime Security:

   • Commitment to maritime security within the Indian Ocean, and coordination under ASEAN frameworks.
   • Support for continuing collaboration in multilateral defence meetings.

5. Defence Technology:

   • Recognition of India's submarine development expertise as beneficial for Indonesia's military capabilities.
   • Discussion on joint initiatives in defence medicine and pharmaceuticals for military health resilience.

6. International Peace Efforts:

   • Joint commitment to a lasting peace in Palestine and cooperation in humanitarian efforts and post-conflict reconstruction.
   • Indonesia’s readiness to contribute peacekeeping forces to Gaza under UN mandate.

7. Cultural Exchange:

   • India announced gifting ceremonial items (horses and carriage) to Indonesia from its Remount Veterinary Corps.

Implications:

• The dialogue signifies the strengthening of the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with potential benefits for regional stability and cooperation amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.
• The outcomes reflect a collective commitment to address common security challenges and promote peace in the Indo-Pacific region.

Conclusion:

• Both countries expressed satisfaction with the outcomes and agreed on the urgency for ongoing high-level exchanges and structured defence cooperation.