Indonesia, Qatar Move Toward Defense Pact

Jakarta-Indonesia and Qatar took a step toward closer military ties on Tuesday, with defense ministers from both countries expressing their intention to finalize a defense cooperation agreement.

Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Qatari Defense Minister Sheikh Saoud bin Abdurrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al-Thani met in Jakarta and signed a memorandum of understanding as a precursor to a broader defense pact.

The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in military training, education and the defense industry. Indonesia’s Defense Ministry said the partnership would involve army and navy personnel from both countries.

Officials described bilateral relations as strategic and voiced support for deeper defense collaboration in the future.