India, Indonesia decide to strengthen defence and security ties

India and Indonesia on Friday resolved to strengthen cooperation in areas of defence and security, connectivity and trade during talks between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi. The two sides reviewed the entire gamut of ties at the 6th India-Indonesia Joint Commission Meeting (JCM).

"During the meeting, both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthen ties in the areas of defence, security, connectivity, trade and investment and people-to-people exchanges," the external affairs ministry said. Noting that India and Indonesia are close maritime neighbours, both sides also expressed satisfaction on the progress made in strengthening Andaman Nicobar-Aceh connectivity.

As key partners in the Indo-Pacific, both sides called for greater synergy in the region, guided by the shared vision on maritime cooperation, the ministry said.