Minister Subianto Reveals the Meeting Results with President Jokowi

Jakarta – The Indonesian Defense Minister, Prabowo Subianto met President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Monday. He stated that several things have been reported to the President, especially about the defense industry, as well as the development of relationships with several countries.  

"I was received by the President, reported several things, especially in the defense field. Also, the development of the defense industry and development of our relations with several countries in the field of defense and geopolitical developments, the President was very satisfied, very happy," Minister Subianto said. 

The minister gave an example, such as Dirgantara Indonesia (DI) has reported the production capability of CN 235 aircraft which was originally estimated at only two aircraft per year. However, according to him, currently, it can produce 8 CN 235 aircraft per year.

"This is very good, a development because the demand for CN 235 in many countries is quite high, quite good, our calculation is approximately 100 CN 235 aircraft from Africa, Latin America, and so on," he explained.

Therefore, Minister Subianto said he was happy and enthusiastic to encourage the Indonesian defense industry to be more efficient, productive, and innovative. "We are not shy to cooperate with anyone who can provide added value for us," he said.

Furthermore, the Minister also reported on several countries that requested to increase defense cooperation with Indonesia.

According to him, they want to send officers and non-commissioned officers to be trained in Indonesia and they also ask these countries to train their troops. 

"I think this shows that Indonesia is still respected, and is a role model for many countries, especially African countries. I think the overall condition is good," he said.