“We already have a well-established partnership with India, and both sides are committed to enhancing it,” said Deputy Defense Minister Donny Ermawan Taufanto during a press conference on Tuesday.
Prior to the meeting with Minister Sjamsoeddin, General Chauhan visited key facilities of Indonesia’s defense industry, including PT Dirgantara Indonesia and PT Pindad in Bandung, West Java, to observe ongoing developments.
“Tomorrow, the CDS is also scheduled to visit PT PAL, the state-owned shipbuilder,” Taufanto added.
He highlighted the strong potential for collaboration between the two nations’ defense industries, noting India’s advanced capabilities and emphasis on local production.
“The Indian Defense Minister has also extended an invitation to Minister Sjamsoeddin to visit India, including a tour of its defense manufacturing sector,” Taufanto said.
The meeting, which lasted approximately one hour, also covered cooperation in military education and training. Indonesia expressed its intention to send cadets to India for further studies.
Discussions extended to the medical and pharmaceutical sectors, with plans to send Indonesian doctors to India for specialist training and to explore joint initiatives in defense pharmaceuticals.
“We are exploring opportunities in defense pharmaceuticals, particularly sourcing medicines for domestic production,” Taufanto explained.
To conclude the meeting, Minister Sjamsoeddin presented General Chauhan with a plaque, a commemorative coin, and a ceremonial sword as tokens of appreciation.
General Chauhan arrived at the Ministry of Defense at around 10:00 a.m. local time, where he was received by Deputy Minister Taufanto. The visit began with a welcoming ceremony, including the playing of both national anthems.
Following the ceremony, General Chauhan and Deputy Minister Taufanto, accompanied by their respective delegations, proceeded to the Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Hall for a closed-door meeting that continued until approximately 11:00 a.m.
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Translator: Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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