The lighthearted moment took place aboard the Royal Australian Navy’s amphibious assault ship HMAS Canberra in Sydney after both leaders delivered a joint statement highlighting strengthened cooperation in defense and security.
When asked about the state of Indonesia–Australia relations, Prabowo said the two countries had long maintained close ties, recalling his past connections with former Australian prime ministers Gough Whitlam, Bob Hawke, and Paul Keating.
He added that the current rapport with Albanese continued that legacy.
He remarked that Indonesia’s relationship with Australia “has been close for many years” and jokingly asked if he could call the Australian leader “Albo,” to which Albanese responded with a smile and said he could. The exchange drew laughter from those attending and reflected the cordial nature of the bilateral meeting.
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The friendly interaction followed a private meeting earlier that day at Kirribilli House, the prime minister’s official residence overlooking Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House.
Albanese reportedly gave Prabowo a brief tour of the residence and its gardens, offering panoramic views of two of Australia’s most famous landmarks.
As the two leaders continued their conversation outdoors, two helicopters passed overhead, providing a striking backdrop to their discussion on deepening cooperation across economic, defense, and maritime sectors.
Prabowo’s visit marked his first state trip to Australia since assuming the presidency and served as a reciprocal gesture following Albanese’s visit to Jakarta in May 2025, shortly after his re-election.
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Translator: Mentari Dwi Gayati, Kuntum Khaira
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
