Australia and Indonesia finalise significant defense pact to deepen military ties

Australia and Indonesia have finalized a new defense pact, with the details of the agreement not yet announced. The pact allows for joint military operations and exercises between the two countries, with Australian and Indonesian militaries able to operate from each other's territories. This is part of a broader trend of Australia strengthening its defense ties with regional partners, including the AUKUS military agreement. The new pact is seen as a significant development, with Australian Prime Minister Albanese describing it as a "historic treaty" that will "bolster our strong defense cooperation".