Indonesian Minister of Defense, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, met with the United States (US) Ambassador to Indonesia, Kamala Shirin Lakhdhir, at his office on Monday, October 28, 2024, discussing measures to strengthen security and defense partnership between Indonesia and the US.
In the meeting, Ambassador Lakhdhir conveyed the US’s desire to increase cooperation in the field of maritime security and continue the Super Garuda Shield joint exercise.
Super Garuda Shield is the largest annual military exchange program between the two countries, which has also invited partner countries as participants since 2022. This exercise also serves to strengthen the US-Indonesia Major Defense Partnership Agreement and advance cooperation in supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
In a release from the Ministry of Defense, the United States also wants to increase cooperation in the field of English language education and training for TNI personnel.
Currently, more than 6,000 Indonesian military and civilian personnel have participated in education and training programs in the US, while the US has sent 77 personnel since 1970. Currently, nine cadets from the TNI Academy are also studying in the US.
Sjafrie welcomed the plan and emphasized Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening the security of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. This meeting is a concrete step for Indonesia and the US in strengthening cooperation in the field of defense, especially to face maritime security challenges and increase the capacity of military personnel in the region.
