Japan has pledged to supply high-speed patrol boats to Indonesia as part of efforts to enhance maritime security and strengthen bilateral defense ties.
The agreement was announced during a meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Bogor, south of Jakarta, on Saturday.
“Japan wants to cooperate as much as possible in areas including the improvement of defense capabilities and energy security,” Ishiba said, according to Kyodo News.
The patrol boats will be provided under Japan’s defense assistance program, aimed at fostering security collaboration with nations that share similar values and interests.
President Prabowo welcomed the partnership and emphasized Indonesia’s commitment to deepening relations with Japan. “We are open if Japan wishes to participate in Indonesia’s economic development going forward,” he said, as quoted by state news agency Antara.
He also expressed gratitude for Japan’s ongoing contributions to Indonesia’s development in various sectors and voiced optimism about future initiatives.
Ishiba, who assumed office in October, is concluding his Southeast Asia tour, which included a visit to Malaysia earlier this week.
The defense agreement underscores Japan’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with regional partners in the Indo-Pacific amid rising concerns over maritime security and geopolitical tensions.
