Indonesia–Sudan Expand Cooperation on Military Education Exchange

Jakarta (RRI.CO.ID) - Cooperation in military education and training has emerged as an opportunity for Indonesia and Sudan to strengthen their defense personnel's capabilities. Sudan has expressed interest in resuming the practice of sending its military personnel to Indonesia for training.

This plan was discussed during a meeting between Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Sudanese Defense Minister Lt. Gen. Hassan Daoud Kabroun Kayan at the Ministry of Defense headquarters in Jakarta on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

Head of the Defense Information Bureau at the Ministry of Defense Secretariat General, Brig. Gen. Rico Ricardo Sirait, said the discussion between the two ministers covered various cooperation opportunities beneficial to both countries, particularly in the defense sector.

“The meeting between the two defense ministers addressed cooperation opportunities that could benefit both nations, especially in the field of defense,” Rico said after the meeting, as quoted by Antara.

He explained that the cooperation discussed includes education and training, human resource capacity building, personnel and cadet exchanges, and partnerships between defense educational institutions.

“Among other things, Sudan expressed a desire to reopen opportunities for its personnel to undergo training in Indonesia,” he said.

Sudanese Defense Minister Hassan Daoud Kabroun Kayan said his visit to Indonesia was part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in the defense sector.

“As the Defense Minister of the Republic of Sudan, I am here to meet with the Indonesian Defense Minister and establish cooperation across various fields, specifically in the defense sector,” Hassan said through an interpreter.

He noted that the long‑standing friendly relations between Indonesia and Sudan provide a foundation for developing strategic programs between the two countries. He added that this relationship is further strengthened by shared characteristics and close ties between their peoples.

Sudan has also provided educational opportunities for Indonesian students through the International University of Africa.

Sudan seeks to adapt Indonesia’s military education cooperation to its own needs. Minister Hassan hopes that strengthening bilateral relations will yield broader benefits for both nations.

Efforts to bolster defense cooperation between Indonesia and Sudan were also discussed when Minister Sjafrie received the Sudanese ambassador to Indonesia, Yassir Mohamed Ali, on April 21, 2026. During that meeting, the two parties explored opportunities for collaboration in defense, military technology, and human resource development.

Diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Sudan date back to 1960, with both countries continuing to seek opportunities to expand cooperation across various sectors. ***