The French and Indonesian defense ministers met to enhance cooperation for regional stability. They discussed technology exchanges and military collaborations amid increasing tensions from Chinese activities in the Indo-Pacific. France’s deployment of the Charles De Gaulle aircraft carrier marks a significant step in their defense engagement, with Indonesia making major arms purchases to bolster its military capacity.
On January 31, Indonesia’s Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu convened in Jakarta to strengthen bilateral ties aimed at enhancing regional stability. The ministers discussed potential collaborations including technology exchanges and various cooperative undertakings, according to Brig. Gen. Frega Wenas, spokesperson for the Indonesian Defense Ministry.
Notably, the French Navy has recently deployed the aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle to Indonesia, marking its inaugural visit. Alongside logistical activities in Bali and Lombok, the carrier participated in maritime exercises with warships from eight nations across the Straits of Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok. This mission underscores France’s commitment to maintaining security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Indonesia’s military collaboration with France has intensified in recent years, particularly during the tenure of President Prabowo Subianto as defense minister. The country has made significant military acquisitions, including 42 Rafale fighter jets and two French Scorpene Evolved submarines, bolstering its defense capacity amid rising tensions in Southeast Asia, particularly with China.
Despite not being a claimant in the South China Sea disputes, Indonesia has engaged in confrontations with China over fishing rights near the Natuna Islands, which are critical to Indonesia’s exclusive economic zone. The waters are vital for commerce and resource extraction, yet efforts to forge a common code of conduct between China and ASEAN have stalled, exacerbating regional tensions.
The cooperation between Indonesia and France is increasingly relevant in today’s geopolitical climate, considering ongoing challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. China’s expanding territorial claims and maritime activities have raised security concerns among Southeast Asian nations. Indonesia, although not directly involved in the South China Sea disputes, faces its own challenges with China, particularly regarding fishing rights. This context has prompted both nations to deepen their defense relations. The defense pact includes significant arms purchases that enhance Indonesia’s military capabilities, which are crucial as regional tensions escalate. Foreign military exercises and strategic deployments highlight a collaborative approach to security, reinforcing Indonesia’s position in the region.
The recent meeting between Indonesia and France’s defense ministers signifies a pivotal moment in strengthening defense ties aimed at ensuring regional stability. Through military collaborations and technology exchanges, both countries are taking proactive measures against escalating regional tensions, particularly related to China’s maritime assertiveness. The sale of advanced military equipment further illustrates Indonesia’s commitment to modernizing its defense capabilities in a complex geopolitical environment.
Original Source: www.asahi.com
