During his inaugural visit to Australia as president, Prabowo Subianto stood alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, both donning matching caps to signify a strengthened partnership. Albanese described the new treaty as a significant enhancement of the existing security and defense cooperation between the two nations.

President Subianto emphasized the importance of neighborly support in times of crisis, referencing an Indonesian cultural saying that underscores the value of neighbors helping each other in emergencies. “Good neighbors will help each other in times of difficulties,” he remarked, highlighting the mutual commitment expected from this alliance.

This agreement marks a historic moment as it features “alliance-like obligations” and stands as Indonesia’s first bilateral agreement of its kind. The treaty signifies a deepening of ties and a mutual promise to support one another in challenging times.

Interestingly, this development follows closely on the heels of Indonesia’s reaction to Australia’s recent Pukpuk defense treaty with Papua New Guinea, which stirred conversation in the region. The new agreement with Indonesia comes as a surprise, suggesting a nuanced and evolving diplomatic landscape in the Pacific.

It also comes as a surprise following Indonesia’s reaction to Australia signing the Pukpuk defence treaty with Papua New Guinea last month.