“We are looking at the deepest and most important defense agreement between our two countries in our history,” Marles said. “[It is the] This is the first time this has happened at the treaty level, which is very important.
“In terms of what it provides as a platform for our defense forces – for Indonesians to train in Australia and vice versa – it is a very important statement about the strategic direction of both Indonesia and Australia.”
Prabowo Subianto with his deputy Gibran Rakabuming Raka after the Indonesian elections this month.credit: AP
Prabowo and his deputy, Gebran Rakabuming Raka, Jokowi's eldest son, have not been officially declared winners of this month's national election, but a reputable quick tally by polling agencies shows they are on track to win easily.
Prabowo lost to Jokowi in the 2014 and 2019 elections. Despite their previous animosity, the former special forces commander has found success this time by promising continuity with Jokowi's popular nation-building policies.
But Prabowo was an independent man, Indonesia observers noted, and it remains to be seen how he will govern from October.
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“I don't think there will be many surprises,” Prabowo said. “But one thing is certain, as the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia has said, we are close neighbours, we are destined to be close neighbours, and we are determined to be good neighbours.
“We have very good relations historically. We have our ups and downs. But we consider Australia a good friend, and it has stood by Indonesia in many critical situations.
He added: “We are determined to strengthen this good relationship in many fields: educational, economic, cultural and military.”
But Prabowo comes with decades of baggage. Accusations of past human rights abuses were deemed credible enough for the United States to bar him entry for nearly two decades. Reportedly, Australia has also blacklisted him for the visa.
Asked if Australia should forget all this, Marles said Prabowo was a “very” friend.
“He knows our country well. He trained his officers at the Royal Military College in Duntroon. It was an honor and a pleasure this time last year to accompany Pak [Mr] Prabowo for lunch in Duntroon, which I know was a very emotional experience for him… and we look forward to continuing the excellent relationship.
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