Transcript of Joint Doorstop Interview by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean and Indonesian Defence Minister Dr Purnomo Yusgiantoro During Their Visit to Exercise Elang Indopura 2010

Question: "In light of the 30th anniversary of Exercise Elang Indopura, how would you describe Singapore-Indonesia defence relations?"

DPM: "We have had very longstanding defence relations with Indonesia. It's been a very good relationship. It also allows officers from both countries to know each other very well and this has contributed to strong bilateral relations, as well as peace and security in the region. We hope that in the coming years, we will continue to build upon these strengths and develop the relationship further."

Dr Purnomo Yusgiantoro: "From our side, I think we feel very happy for the good relations between Singapore and Indonesia, especially in the joint operations of the air forces. What we think now is really to further strengthen and enhance our cooperation. There is an idea that we are going to sit down and talk and discuss between the air forces and the defence ministries, how then we can get closer and enhance our cooperation."
Question: "What can you say about the future of Singapore-Indonesia relations?"

Dr Purnomo Yusgiantoro: "Well, I can say that a marriage for 30 years is not easy but we are together, so if we can get 30 years of marriage, we can do it more in the future. Some ideas which we are discussing now are about how we can strengthen and further our defence relations, as well as our country to country relations. I think that is a very important aspect of the countries' relations and we fully support it."

DPM: "I would say that strong bilateral relations between Singapore and Indonesia are part of the very strong relationships among all our ASEAN countries, and with ASEAN playing an important role in the security architecture, I see this strong bilateral relationship playing an very important part of it as well."

More Resources

Singapore and Indonesia Mark 30 Years of Exercise Elang Indopura

Fact Sheet: 30 years of Exercise Elang Indopura