Indonesia, France agree to boost defense industry ties

President Prabowo Subianto's administration is demonstrating a clear strategy of diversifying Indonesia's international partnerships, particularly in the crucial defense sector. Following recent defense pacts with the United States and energy deals with Russia, the agreement to boost defense industry cooperation with France signals Jakarta's pragmatic approach to national security and economic interests.

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discussed strengthening strategic cooperation

France has long been a key strategic partner for Indonesia in Europe, and this renewed commitment, discussed during President Macron's hosting of President Subianto at the Élysée Palace, underscores the mutual benefit of this relationship. The focus on defense equipment procurement and strengthening the indigenous defense industry aligns with Indonesia's goal of modernizing its military assets, a priority for President Prabowo, a former general.

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This includes the procurement of defence equipment and the strengthening of the defence industry

This diplomatic push, which also includes cooperation in energy transition and renewable energy, comes at a critical time. Indonesia, like many nations, faces pressure from volatile global oil prices, exacerbated by the conflict in the Middle East. President Subianto's justification for his extensive foreign travel – "it's to secure oil, I have to go everywhere" – highlights the urgency of these efforts. While maintaining a non-aligned posture, Indonesia's engagement with blocs like BRICS and its strategic location along vital shipping lanes like the Malacca Strait make these diverse partnerships essential for its stability and prosperity.

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Brothers and sisters, it’s to secure oil, I have to go everywhere