Indonesia Seeks to Strengthen Defence Cooperation with Pakistan

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On July 15, 2025, Indonesia’s Defence Minister, Lieutenant General (Retired) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, expressed a strong desire to deepen defence ties with Pakistan during high-level meetings in Islamabad. He met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, emphasizing collaboration in defence production and military cooperation. The visit highlighted the longstanding historical ties between the two nations and aimed to reinforce a strategic partnership in pursuit of regional stability and shared security goals.

During the meetings, discussions centered on enhancing bilateral defence collaboration, addressing regional security dynamics, and exploring joint military initiatives. The Indonesian defence minister commended Pakistan’s efforts in counterterrorism and reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening military-to-military relations. Both sides emphasized the deep cultural and religious bonds that have long united Pakistan and Indonesia and agreed to accelerate projects under the existing Pakistan-Indonesia Defence Cooperation Agreement.

Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to deepening cooperation in both defence and economic sectors. Indonesia expressed particular interest in exploring joint ventures, including potential collaboration in Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder fighter jet program. Such cooperation aligns with Indonesia’s ongoing military modernization efforts. While operating under a comparatively modest defence budget, Indonesia views strategic partnerships as a means to strengthen its defence capabilities.

The visit also underscored Pakistan’s broader diplomatic efforts to forge and strengthen alliances across Asia, particularly in the wake of heightened regional tensions. Strengthening ties with Indonesia is seen as a move to enhance regional security and build mutual capacity in defence and technology, positioning both countries as partners in promoting peace and stability.