During a joint appearance with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Sydney today, the Prime Minister revealed that discussions surrounding a key agreement are nearing completion.

Set for an official signing in January, this agreement aims to deepen the security ties between Australia and Indonesia substantially.

Notably, last year saw Indonesia conducting its first bilateral military exercises with Russia, concurrent with its ongoing drills with Australia.

Prime Minister Albanese emphasized that this new treaty would enhance the existing agreements between Canberra and Jakarta.

“This treaty marks a significant expansion of our current security and defence collaboration,” he stated.

“It underscores the robust nature of our relationship, which is a positive development for both the region and the citizens of Australia and Indonesia,” he added.

Subianto said it was crucial for his nation to have strong regional relationships.

“In the Indonesian culture, we have a saying, when we face an emergency, it is our neighbour that will help us,” he said.

“Maybe our relatives will remain far away, but our neighbours are the closest and only good neighbours will help each other.”