Australia and Indonesia announce new bilateral security treaty

Australia and Indonesia have agreed a new bilateral treaty on security and defence cooperation, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a joint press conference with Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto on Wednesday (12 November).

Albanese said the treaty was a major extension of previous security deals, the first signed 30 years ago, and also commits to regular security dialogue between leaders.

"If either or both countries' security is threatened, to consult and consider what measures may be taken either individually or jointly to deal with those threats," he said.

Indonesia and Australia recognised that acting together was the best way to secure peace and stability in the region, he added.

Prabowo said the treaty committed to close cooperation in defence and security fields.

"Our determination is to maintain the best of relationships in order to enhance and guarantee security for both of our countries," he said.

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