Japan-Indonesia Defense Ministers’ Video Teleconference

On November 2, 2020, Minister KISHI held a video teleconference with Minister of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Ltgen. (ret.) Prabowo Subianto.

1. Minister Prabowo congratulated Minister Kishi on his appointment as Minister of Defense. Minister Kishi expressed his appreciation.
2. Minister Kishi and Minister Prabowo exchanged views on the regional security issues, including the East China Sea and the South China Sea in light of the current events occurring in the region, and reaffirmed the importance of a free and open maritime order based on the rule of law. Minister Kishi expressed that Japan opposes any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by coercion or any activities that escalate tensions.
3. They also exchanged views on bilateral defense cooperation and exchanges including expediting the discussion on defense equipment and technology cooperation. The two ministers concurred on promoting defense cooperation in the context of preventing the spread of infectious diseases, including sharing expertise and lessons learned during disaster relief operations, in light of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
4. In this context, the two ministers also concurred in maintaining close communication between respective defense authorities, including the “2+2” meeting at the earliest possible timing, and proactively promoting defense cooperation and exchanges to uphold and reinforce the Free and Open Indo-Pacific.