RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Australia’s Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Matt Thistlethwaite, described the Jakarta Treaty as a landmark in the partnership between Indonesia and Australia. He emphasized that the agreement reflects mutual trust and cooperation aimed at strengthening peace and regional security.

“The signing of the Australia–Indonesia Joint Security Agreement, or the Jakarta Treaty, is a significant step in our bilateral relations today. This treaty is built on the trust and cooperation that both countries have established,” Thistlethwaite said in Jakarta on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.

The Jakarta Treaty provides for regular consultations between Indonesia and Australia on issues related to shared security. Thistlethwaite noted that the agreement serves as a foundation for expanding collaboration, enhancing national security in both countries, and safeguarding regional stability.

“This treaty requires both nations to consult regularly on matters affecting our shared security. It also enables us to strengthen national security and regional stability through deeper cooperation,” he explained.

The scope of cooperation under the Jakarta Treaty covers defense, maritime security, cybersecurity, and economic resilience. Thistlethwaite added that its implementation opens the door to new bilateral security initiatives.

“Whether in defense, maritime, cyber, or economic cooperation, this treaty paves the way for new initiatives, including more advanced joint military exercises and the development of defense training facilities in Indonesia,” he said.

The agreement also expands military education exchanges through the Young Leaders Forum, which Thistlethwaite said would help foster early connections between future military leaders of both nations.

Beyond security, the treaty is designed to strengthen people-to-people ties. Thistlethwaite highlighted that the Australian government is providing additional funding to the Australia–Indonesia Institute.

“The implementation of this treaty also gives us the opportunity to invest in our most important asset--human resources. We are providing additional funding to the Australia–Indonesia Institute to improve Indonesian language skills and deepen understanding of Indonesia in Australia,” he concluded. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)