Minister Sjafrie and Elbridge Colby Discuss Defense Cooperation Partnership

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesia’s Minister of Defense, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, received a courtesy call from Under Secretary of War for Policy at the United States Department of War, Elbridge A. Colby. They held a meeting at the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia in Jakarta, Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on developments in bilateral relations and the implementation of various programs under the framework of the Major Defense Cooperation Partnership. Minister of Defense Sjafrie welcomed Elbridge A. Colby’s visit and affirmed the importance of defense cooperation that delivers tangible benefits to reinforcing Indonesia’s defense capabilities.

The United States also views Indonesia as a strategic partner that plays a pivotal role in the region. The relations of both countries are built upon respect for Indonesia’s traditions and history, in line with their commitment to expanding the major defense cooperation partnership framework, which serves as one of the foundations for developing defense relations between the two countries.

Moreover, Minister of Defense Sjafrie underscored that, “One of the key focuses of future cooperation is improving the quality of defense human resources through education and training. Opportunities for Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel to pursue education and training in the United States will continue to be promoted by upholding professionalism and merit-based principles, ensuring that those selected are personnel who possess the necessary competencies and meet the required qualifications.”

The two sides discussed enhancing joint exercises, including joint special forces exercises, as well as cooperation aimed at strengthening the capabilities and professionalism of the TNI. Minister Sjafrie stressed that the cooperation of both countries will continue to be pursued within the framework of Indonesia’s national interests and directed toward strengthening Indonesia’s capabilities so that the country can become increasingly self-reliant in safeguarding its sovereignty and national interests.

Minister of Defense Sjafrie also underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation in the defense industry as part of efforts to enhance Indonesia’s defense capacity and capabilities. Defense industry cooperation is aimed at supporting the development of national capabilities and strengthening Indonesia’s defense self-reliance through partnerships that provide tangible benefits to both countries.

During the discussions, both sides also shared a common understanding of the importance of nationalism, patriotism, and professionalism as the foundations of defense relations. The United States respects Indonesia’s nationalism and patriotism and supports efforts to enhance Indonesia’s defense professionalism. This principle of mutual respect serves as an important foundation for ensuring that the cooperation between the two countries develops constructively.

“Defense cooperation with the United States is not aimed at establishing U.S. military bases in Indonesia. The cooperation is focused on programs that provide benefits for enhancing national defense capacity, particularly in education, training, personnel capability development, and strengthening interoperability in accordance with Indonesia’s needs and interests,” Minister Sjafrie affirmed.

The meeting also reaffirmed the importance of open communication between the two countries in addressing various technical aspects of defense cooperation. Indonesia will continue to uphold its national regulations and procedures in every form of defense cooperation, while ensuring that all activities are carried out safely and orderly, with full respect for Indonesia’s sovereignty.