BOGOR, Indonesia — On Wednesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan engaged in discussions with Indonesian leader Prabowo Subianto, focusing on enhancing the economic and defense collaboration between the two predominantly Muslim nations.
Erdogan’s visit to Indonesia marks his second destination during a four-day journey that also includes stops in Malaysia and Pakistan, making it significant for both countries.
During this visit, Turkey and Indonesia convened their inaugural High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council summit, which was established following agreements made at the G20 Summit held in Bali last year.
In a joint news conference after their meeting, the leaders addressed various regional and global challenges, particularly the ongoing situation in Gaza. Subianto described the discussions as “intensive and productive,” emphasizing the commitment both nations share to fortifying their partnership. “President Erdogan’s visit is a new chapter in our strategic partnership,” Subianto remarked.
Indonesia has consistently supported the Palestinian cause, and Subianto noted that both countries align in their beliefs regarding the necessity of a cease-fire and the importance of pursuing a two-state solution to resolve the Palestinian dilemma.
Erdogan expressed gratitude for Indonesia’s robust stance on the Palestinian issue, reiterating his call for Israel to take responsibility for the reconstruction efforts in Gaza. He assessed that damage resulting from Israel’s ongoing 15-month campaign has neared $100 billion, reinforcing that legal principles dictate that damages should be sought from those accountable.
Arriving late Tuesday in Jakarta alongside his wife, First Lady Emine Erdogan, the Turkish president was welcomed by Subianto amidst light rain at Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport. The two leaders then proceeded together in a motorcade to Erdogan’s accommodations.
Turkey and Indonesia have nurtured an increasingly strong relationship in recent years, having previously convened in Ankara last July when Subianto was the president-elect and serving as defense minister. Subianto committed to enhancing defense collaboration and other strategic areas for mutual advantage.
Both nations entered into a defense cooperation agreement in 2010, which led to a joint development of a new medium tank model by Indonesia’s state-owned arms manufacturer Pindad and Turkey’s FNSS. Earlier this year, Turkey and Indonesia formalized a plan of action for collaborative military training and defense industry partnership.
Beyond Indonesia, Turkey has established High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council forums with 21 other countries, including Pakistan. During their Wednesday meeting, the leaders also oversaw the signing of numerous agreements spanning trade, investment, education, energy, agriculture, health, and religious services. A notable agreement was made for the joint establishment of a Baykar combat-drone manufacturing facility in Indonesia, with Erdogan pledging Turkish investment in the development of Indonesia’s new capital on Borneo Island.
“We aim to elevate our trade by $10 billion annually while maintaining a balanced approach,” Erdogan shared during the meeting.
Following Indonesia, Erdogan is set to travel to Pakistan, where he will engage with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Pakistan-Turkey Business and Investment Forum and attend another High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting.
