Cambodia Seeks Indonesian Military Equipment as Defense Ties Strengthen.

Indonesia and Cambodia have strengthened their bilateral relations in the field of defense, with Cambodia expressing new interest in acquiring military equipment manufactured in Indonesia. This development was discussed during a bilateral meeting led by Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Sok Chenda Sophea at the Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Phnom Penh on August 21, 2024.
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Cambodia expressed interest in purchasing Indonesian military equipment, specifically helicopters and light weapons, produced by companies such as PT PINDAD and PT Dirgantara Indonesia. (Picture source: Wikimedia)

During the meeting, the two countries addressed several key topics, including political, economic, and socio-cultural cooperation, as well as security and defense issues. On the subject of defense, Retno Marsudi advocated for strengthening the longstanding partnership between the two nations through dialogue, joint exercises, and capacity building.

Cambodia expressed interest in purchasing Indonesian military equipment, specifically helicopters and light weapons, produced by companies such as PT PINDAD and PT Dirgantara Indonesia. This interest highlights the growing influence of Indonesia's defense industry in the region and Cambodia's intention to modernize its military capabilities. Retno Marsudi also invited Cambodia to visit Indonesian defense industry facilities and to participate in the Indo Defense Expo & Forum, scheduled for November 6-9, 2024.

In parallel, the discussions between the two countries also touched on crucial issues such as combating human trafficking, particularly the increasing problem of online fraud involving Indonesian citizens. The Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh has handled 842 cases of online fraud, reflecting the scale of this issue in the region.

Economic topics were also discussed, including the interest of several Indonesian companies in investing in Cambodia's food and infrastructure sectors. Retno Marsudi encouraged the finalization of a cultural cooperation agreement between the two countries and proposed joint studies for the establishment of direct shipping routes and flights between Indonesia and Cambodia.

Finally, the ministers agreed to enhance the trade value between their two countries and discussed several regional and global issues, including the situation in Myanmar and the ongoing attacks on Gaza by Israel. This meeting reflects the shared commitment of Indonesia and Cambodia to strengthening their partnership, not only in defense but also in political, economic, and cultural areas, while jointly addressing regional and international challenges.