- India and Indonesia strengthen defense ties through high-level talks and industry visits.
- Discussions include collaboration in military training, education, and defense manufacturing.
- Both nations explore cooperation in defense, pharmaceuticals, and medical training programs.
Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin received a visit from General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) of the Indian Armed Forces, to talk about enhancing defense and military collaboration between the two nations.
“We already have a well-established partnership with India, and both sides are committed to enhancing it,” said Deputy Defense Minister Donny Ermawan Taufanto during a press conference.
Before meeting Minister Sjamsoeddin, General Chauhan visited significant Indonesian defense industry facilities, such as PT Dirgantara Indonesia and PT Pindad in Bandung, West Java, to assess current progress.
“Tomorrow, the CDS is also scheduled to visit PT PAL, the state-owned shipbuilder,” Taufanto added.
He emphasized the significant potential for partnership between the defense sectors of the two countries, pointing out India's sophisticated capabilities and focus on domestic manufacturing.
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“The Indian Defense Minister has also extended an invitation to Minister Sjamsoeddin to visit India, including a tour of its defense manufacturing sector,” Taufanto said.
In the meeting, they have also discussed collaboration in military education and training. Indonesia conveyed its desire to send cadets to India for advanced education. Conversations broadened to the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, including plans to dispatch Indonesian physicians to India for specialized training and to investigate collaborative efforts in defense pharmaceuticals.
“We are exploring opportunities in defense pharmaceuticals, particularly sourcing medicines for domestic production,” Taufanto explained.