China, Indonesia pledge deeper defense, security cooperation

China and Indonesia pledged on Friday to advance political security and defense cooperation in areas ranging from joint exercises to maritime security and combating transnational crime.

The pledge was made among Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Defense Minister Dong Jun and their Indonesian counterparts Sugiono and Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin at the Second Ministerial Meeting of China-Indonesia Joint Foreign and Defense Ministerial Dialogue in Jakarta.

The ministers agreed to better coordinate development and security and work together to address various external challenges, according to a news release issued by the Foreign Ministry.

The two sides will foster a sense of security partnership, support each other on issues concerning their core interests, and jointly oppose external interference.

The two sides spoke highly of the "2+2" dialogue mechanism, and agreed to continue using the strategic communication platform to deepen solidarity and coordination.

They agreed to strengthen law enforcement cooperation in combating transnational crime and bringing back fugitives and illicit assets, support and participate in international efforts to combat telecom and online fraud.

The two sides will also implement documents on maritime security cooperation to safeguard the security and smooth operation of key sea lanes.

They also reached an agreement on promoting regular and institutionalized cooperation in areas including defense equipment and technology, joint exercises and training.

The two sides pledged to make joint efforts to safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea.

They also expressed their readiness to strengthen coordination on Middle East issues and actively work to promote peace and end hostilities.