VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto has begun to intensify Indo-Pacific defense, through a working visit to the United States (US). Prabowo held a meeting with US Defense Minister Lloyd J Austin III at the Pentagon Building, Washington, DC, USA, Thursday (20/10/2022).

"In line with the strategic goal of advancing a more connected Indo-Pacific. (Indo-Pacific, ed) prosperous, safe, resilient, free and open," said Defense Minister Prabowo in an official statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Defense, quoted Saturday (22/10/ 2022).

Indonesia and the US want a free and open Indo-Pacific. "I believe that achieving this goal will require the cooperation and participation of Indo-Pacific countries," said Defense Minister Prabowo.

The two defense ministers also discussed the future of the Indonesia-US bilateral. Minister of Defense Austin said he appreciated Indonesia's leadership in ASEAN, the Indo-Pacific, and in the world.

The two defense ministers agreed on the importance of sustainable cooperation. "In the midst of regional security dynamics, it is becoming increasingly complex," said Defense Minister Prabowo.

In fact, Austin said, the US will continue to help modernize the Indonesian military. "And to strengthen interoperability between the US and Indonesia," said Austin.

Austin also said support for Defense Minister Prabowo's focus on professionalizing the Indonesian military. Because, he said, Indonesia has been sending cadets for the past two years.

The cadets on scholarships, they study at three US military academies. Namely, at The US Military Academy (USMA) West Point, the US Naval Academy (USNA) Annapolis.

And, The US Air Force Academy (USAFA) Colorado. "We hope that the defense cooperation between the two countries will be stronger and the friendship between the two countries will continue," said Defense Minister Prabowo.

"And growing in the spirit of mutual respect and trust for each other's national interests," said Defense Minister Prabowo.

In addition, the two ministers also discussed significant progress in US-Indonesia defense cooperation. "Including, the expansion of the "Super" Garuda Shield this summer, the largest exercise ever carried out between the two countries," said Defense Minister Prabowo.

Defense Minister Prabowo also appreciated the US intention to support an independent and strong ASEAN. "And I thank you for holding this meeting," said Defense Minister Prabowo. (RRI)