JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin held a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to discuss strengthening bilateral defense cooperation and enhancing security in the Indo-Pacific region. According to a statement released by the U.S. Department of Defense, the call marked an introductory dialogue between the two defense leaders, with both reaffirming their commitment to enhancing their partnership.

During the call, the two ministers underscored the importance of a strong defense relationship between Indonesia and the United States. They discussed ways to deepen cooperation to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in maritime security, which remains a crucial issue in the region. Both nations committed to working together to address security challenges and promote regional prosperity.

Both Sjafrie and Hegseth expressed a shared vision of a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. They agreed that strengthening bilateral defense relations would contribute significantly to regional stability. The two ministers also touched on various matters related to military cooperation, including joint military exercises and strategic partnerships.

Later that same day, Minister Sjafrie met with U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia, Kamala Shirin Lakhdhir. The two discussed the upcoming Super Garuda Shield military exercise, which will take place later this year. This multinational exercise has become a vital platform for strengthening ties between participating countries, with a focus on enhancing interoperability and coordination among regional forces.

Super Garuda Shield, which involves Indonesia, the U.S., and several other countries, is one of the largest joint military drills in the region. The exercise aims to bolster collaboration in counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief operations. Both Sjafrie and Lakhdhir highlighted the importance of the exercise as a key tool in enhancing defense cooperation and fostering stronger regional alliances.

In addition to Super Garuda Shield, the two leaders also discussed other defense cooperation initiatives between the two countries. These included the potential expansion of training facilities in Baturaja, Indonesia, and various programs aimed at increasing Indonesia’s defense capabilities. The conversation emphasized the continuous need for mutual support and knowledge sharing to enhance Indonesia’s defense infrastructure.

Hegseth, who took office as the U.S. Secretary of Defense on January 25, 2025, is the second defense secretary appointed under President Donald Trump’s administration. His discussions with Minister Sjafrie were framed within the context of the broader strategic goals set by both countries for the Indo-Pacific. The call was seen as an important step toward further solidifying the defense relationship between Indonesia and the United States.

As both nations continue to navigate an increasingly complex security environment, these discussions serve as a foundation for future collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. With both leaders committed to reinforcing their bilateral ties, Indonesia and the U.S. are poised to play an even more influential role in ensuring regional peace and security. (Uki Ruknuddin)