U.S. Optimistic About Reinforcing Strategic Relations with Indonesia

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Under Secretary of War for Policy, United States, Elbridge A. Colby, expressed optimism about continuing to strengthen strategic relations with Indonesia thru partnerships based on the principles of mutual respect and increasingly close engagement.

Colby said that the meeting with President Prabowo and the President's main team was an extraordinary honor. He hopes that the relationship between Indonesia and the US continues to develop thru an increasingly close partnership.

"So, we are very optimistic on the part of the US government to advance relations with Indonesia based on the principles of mutual respect, partnership, and deepening engagement," Colby said in a statement to the media in Jakarta, Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

The day before, on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, Colby met with Defense Minister, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin to discuss strengthening strategic relations and defense cooperation between Indonesia and the US.

Both parties discussed a number of agendas, ranging from defense capacity development, personnel education and training, enhanced joint exercises, to interoperability. The cooperation also includes joint special forces exercises to strengthen the capabilities and professionalism of the Indonesian National Armed Forces.

In addition, Indonesia and the US discussed strengthening defense industry cooperation to enhance the capacity and capability of the national defense industry.

"For us, it is an extraordinary honor to meet with the President and his main team." We feel honored to be here and look forward to continuing efforts to further strengthen our relationship with Indonesia," he said.

The strengthening of Indonesia-US defense relations remains directed within the framework of national interests and the principle of mutual respect. The partnership between the two countries is expected to continue providing benefits for the enhancement of defense capacity and supporting regional security and stability.