Minister for Defence Senator David Johnston today met with the Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, General Moeldoko, who was in Canberra to conduct the second annual Australia‑Indonesia High Level Committee with the Chief of the Australian Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin.
General Moeldoko was accompanied on this visit by a senior delegation of Indonesia’s military leadership, including Indonesia’s Deputy Chief of Navy and Deputy Chief of Air Force. Senior military assistants for intelligence, operations and exercises, logistics, and education and training also attended.
Senator Johnston conveyed to General Moeldoko the actions the Australian Government was taking at home and abroad to address the threat of returning foreign fighters; a security challenge shared by both nations.
Senator Johnston and General Moeldoko also discussed key areas of bilateral defence cooperation including the large program of reciprocal military education and training as well as Australia’s contribution to Indonesia’s military modernisation program.
“The bilateral defence relationship with Indonesia is a key strategic priority for Australia,” Senator Johnston said.
During his meeting with General Moeldoko, Senator Johnston expressed his confidence that Australia’s defence engagement with Indonesia would continue to be productive, cooperative and mutually beneficial over the coming years.