Japan Pledges Patrol Boats to Indonesia

Japan has committed to providing high-speed patrol boats to Indonesia as part of expanded security cooperation, announced Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba following discussions with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

The partnership aims to bolster defense ties amid China's increasing influence in the region.

During their meeting in Bogor, the two leaders emphasized collaboration on energy security, disaster prevention, and human resource development.

They also agreed to convene the third round of "two-plus-two" talks between their foreign and defense ministers later this year.

Under Japan’s defense assistance program, the supply of two patrol boats will strengthen Indonesia's maritime capabilities.

This initiative builds on an existing bilateral agreement on defense equipment and technology transfer established in 2021.

Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based, free, and open international order, underscoring their shared strategic goals as maritime nations.

Prabowo praised the meeting as a testament to the growing ties between the two countries, highlighting discussions on infrastructure, energy, health, and global geopolitics.