Indonesia’s defence deal with Bosnia signals Asian middle power’s clout

Indonesia has signed a new defence cooperation agreement with Bosnia and Herzegovina in a move analysts say marks another step in Jakarta’s bid to expand its security partnerships beyond traditional Western partners.The pact was signed during a meeting between Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and his Bosnian counterpart Zukan Helez in Sarajevo on January 11, according to Indonesian media reports.“This visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and exploring avenues for strategic cooperation in the defence sector,” Indonesia’s defence ministry said in a statement the following day.The agreement provides a framework for bilateral military training programmes and cooperation in United Nations-mandated humanitarian and peacekeeping missions, while also opening the door to technological and defence industry cooperation.Speaking after the meeting, Helez described Indonesia as a critical strategic partner for Sarajevo, citing its position as the world’s fourth-most populous country and a leading military power in Asia.“One of the key issues is the establishment of a resident military attaché, as until now the military attaché from Belgrade covered Bosnia and Herzegovina as well,” the Sarajevo Times quoted Helez as saying.