Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen met Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta, Indonesia this afternoon.

During the meeting, both Ministers exchanged views on geopolitical developments as well as security challenges, and discussed the need for countries to work collectively for the peace and security of the region. Dr Ng also expressed his support for Indonesia's ASEAN chairmanship in 2023.

Dr Ng's visit underscores the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and Indonesia. Both defence establishments interact regularly through exercises, visits, professional exchanges and cross-attendance of courses. These interactions enhance mutual understanding, strengthen people-to-people ties and professionalism between both militaries. Singapore and Indonesia also work closely together to advance security cooperation at multilateral forums such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and the ADMM-Plus.

Dr Ng is in Indonesia for an official visit from 1 to 2 November 2022. As part of his programme, Dr Ng laid wreaths at both a statue of President Soekarno and at Kalibata Heroes' Cemetery. He will also attend the 9th Indo Defence 2022 Expo and Forum opening ceremony dinner hosted by Mr Prabowo this evening, and visit the Expo tomorrow morning.