"Indonesia is an important country for Australia and one of best friend countries as well closed partner for Australia," said Rudd in the release received by ANTARA, here Saturday.
The visit done by Marty Natalegawa was to follow up the President Yudhoyono`s call to Australia last year. The relationship of both countries had never been as strong as nowadays, added he.
"The focus of this meeting is to prepare the East Asia Summit (EAS), hold this year in Bali," Rudd said.
Either Australia or Indonesia was waiting for good news of both US and Russia to join the forum this Summit.
"Australia appreciates Indonesia as both ASEAN Chairmanship and EAS. We are waiting for further deep partnership with Indonesia in such forums," he added.
Both Foreign Ministers would talk about strategies to strengthen defense in combating human trafficking and terrorism.
Besides, they concerned on the conflict between Kampuchea and Thailand, where Marty had played an important role in mediating both country.
"It`s a pleasure to again welcome Marty in Australia. He is an old friend in Australia since his doctoral degree in 1993. I`m waiting for further cooperation in strengthening both Indonesia and Australia partnership," he said.(*)
Editor: Ruslan Burhani
Copyright © ANTARA 2011
