Delegates at the Foreign and Defence Ministers' 2+2 Dialogue (Source: AFP/VNA)Jakarta (VNA) - Indonesia and Australia held their third Foreign and Defence Ministers' 2+2 Dialogue in Sydney on December 21 with notable outcomes recorded in maritime and counter-terrorism cooperation and bilateral trade.
According to a press release from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both sides agreed to work together in maritime development within the framework of the Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA). Indonesia is taking the helm of IORA from 2015-2017.
A memorandum of understanding for coordinating counter-terrorism efforts was signed. Indonesia stressed the need to apply a comprehensive counter-terrorism measure combining military, religious and socio-economic approaches.
Enhancing trade ties was a focus of their talks, as the two countries agreed to resume the Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA) negotiations.
They will support each other at regional and multilateral meetings, including the G-20 and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forums.
Concerning the East Sea issue, the y shared a stance stating that all parties involved should restrain themselves to relieve tension and maintain regional stability.
Indonesia and Australia reiterated their commitment to joining hands in dealing with the migrant crisis. Australia will attend an international conference on the issue held in Indonesia’s Bali in March 2016.-VNA
