Jokowi, Australia PM Agree to Continue Military Cooperation

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian government and Australia have agreed to respect each others` sovereignty.

In a bilateral talk held in Kiribilli House, Sydney, on Sunday (26/2), both leaders will continue to maintain good relationship.

President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo said that good relationship can be attained if both countries respect each others’ territory.

"We must not interfere in others’ domestic affairs and we must develop mutually beneficial relationship," Jokowi explained.

In the meantime, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull expressed that Australia will recognize and respect Indonesia’s sovereignity. He added that commitment towards 2006 Lombok Treaty has laid a foundation for strategic relationship and the securityof both countries.

"Australia is fully committed to recognizing Indonesia’s sovereignity and territory," he said.

Furthermore, both countries have also agreed to hold cooperation in several sectors. In defense and security, both countries agreed to continue a cooperation in military training.

In the economic sector, both countries are committed to complete the proces of Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IACEPA) at the end of 2017. Perticularly in trade, President Jokowi expects the aolishment of tariff and non-tariff fee for Indonesian products such as paper and coconut oil.

"In politics, I welcome a cooperation in terrorrism eradication and trans-national organize crime," President Jokowi added.

Lastly, President jokowi and PM Turnbull witnessed the signing of memorandum of understanding in the filed of maritime.

ADITYA BUDIMAN