UK defense secretary visits Indonesia to boost ties

Defense Secretary of the United Kingdom Philip Hammond (2nd L) inspects the guards of honor at defense ministry office in Jakarta, Indonesia, Jan. 16, 2013. (Xinhua/Veri Sanovri)

Defense Secretary of the United Kingdom Philip Hammond held a meeting with Indonesian Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro in the latter's office here on Wednesday.

During his two-day visit, Hammond was also scheduled to have a bilateral meeting with foreign affairs minister Marty Natalegawa.

Hammond's visit is part of moves to reinforce strong relationship with Indonesia following the successful visit of Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to UK in November and UK Prime Minister David Cameron to Indonesia last April, a statement obtained by Xinhua from the UK embassy said.

Hammond's meeting with Indonesian Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro will build on the recently-signed Defense MoU between the two countries, the statement said.

"The visit clearly demonstrates UK commitment to strengthen defense links with Indonesia. As the largest democratic country in the region, and a nation which is playing a constructive and important role in regional security, Indonesia remains an important partner for the UK. This visit is further evidence of our relationship with Indonesia going from strength to strength," British Ambassador to Indonesia Mark Canning said in the statement.

Besides meeting with the two Indonesian ministers, Hammond was also scheduled to meet several others Indonesian government officials and representatives of Indonesian armed forces.