Jakarta (ANTARA) - Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin announced that the Indonesian Military (TNI) is ready to conduct joint military exercises with Australia in the Morotai Islands District, North Maluku Province.

Sjamsoeddin confirmed this after meeting with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Richard Marles, here on Thursday.

He noted that this military cooperation was initiated at Australia's request.

The minister stated that his side positively welcomed this request, as it would positively impact bilateral relations between Indonesia and Australia.

Additionally, he highlighted that the cooperation would also help strengthen Indonesia's security and stability in the region.

"Later, we will use the Morotai training area in Maluku for the training needs between the Indonesian Air Force and the Australian Air Force," Sjamsoeddin told the media.

He remarked that the exercises would not be limited to air defense but would also include maritime defense activities in the Morotai area.

The joint exercises will feature various activities such as combat simulations, testing of main defense systems, and mutual learning of war strategies.

When asked about the schedule for the exercises, the minister was unable to provide specific details.

However, he expressed hope that the military cooperation would further reinforce bilateral relations between Indonesia and Australia.

On Thursday, Minister Sjamsoeddin welcomed Richard Marles at the Ministry of Defense office in Central Jakarta.

According to ANTARA's monitoring, Marles arrived at 10 a.m. local time, accompanied by a delegation, and was greeted directly by Sjamsoeddin, who had been waiting in front of the Ministry of Defense building.

The two officials then attended a welcome ceremony and conducted a ceremonial troop inspection.

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Translator: Walda, Kenzu
Editor: Primayanti
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