“We discussed [our bilateral partnerships on] national security and counterterrorism, which follows on from [our meeting in] August in Bali and how can we build on our efforts,” Wiranto said as quoted by Antara news agency in Jakarta on Wednesday. 

Wiranto said Australia had helped Indonesia to combat radicalism and terrorism, such as on the eradication of the East Indonesia Mujahidin (MIT) terrorist group led by Santoso.

“Taking out Santoso cannot be separated from the intelligence assistance given by Australia that helped a lot with its advanced technology,” said Wiranto.

The minister hoped there could be a transfer of technology between Australia and Indonesia so that each country could stand independently and cooperate more effectively in fighting terrorists, who were not bounded by territory.

Meanwhile, Bishop said both parties wanted to continue enhancing their cooperation in combating terrorism and extremism.

"Both countries will exchange information and intelligence data to protect each of our citizens from terrorism," she said.

The two ministers also discussed the return of foreign fighters back into their respective countries in which the risks associated had to be anticipated to maintain national security.

Wiranto said they had also discussed Indonesia's stance on the disputed South China Sea during the meeting.

It is expected that in an upcoming "Two-plus-two" meeting between foreign and defense ministers from both countries, which is set to be held in Bali on Oct. 28, the South China Sea issue will be discussed further, of which neither country is a claimant. (liz/ebf)

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