Bosnia and Herzegovina has taken a significant step in enhancing its defense capabilities by signing an agreement with Indonesia to establish a defense cooperation framework. The discussions took place in Sarajevo and were co-led by Bosnian Defence Minister Zukan Helez and Indonesian Defence Minister Syafrie Syamsuddin. The meeting initiated the drafting of a formal document, which includes a memorandum of understanding aimed at providing a structured outline for collaboration between the two nations.
During the event, Minister Helez emphasized Indonesia’s strategic importance as a partner, noting that the Southeast Asian nation is the world’s fourth-most populous country and ranks among the top military powers in Asia. He underscored the importance of establishing a resident military attaché, highlighting that currently, military representation from Belgrade has covered Bosnia and Herzegovina. This change aims to bolster direct military ties and facilitate better communication between the two defense establishments.
The partnership agreement is set to extend beyond merely military representation. It includes provisions for collaboration in the defense industry, with a focus on a planned visit to the Pretis facility in Vogošća. Helez mentioned that Bosnian engineers could engage in sharing their expertise with Indonesia’s defense sector, further enhancing mutual interests.
In addition to industry development and technology transfer, the two countries expressed their commitment to joint military training and participation in UN-mandated humanitarian and peacekeeping missions. This broader focus on collaborative efforts aims to address shifting regional dynamics and support global peace and stability initiatives. Helez articulated the sentiment that “peace has no alternative,” and the discussions included a range of global security issues, such as the ongoing situations in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as various tensions in Southeast Asia.
Both ministers indicated a willingness for Bosnian and Indonesian forces to potentially collaborate in broader coalition missions aimed at fostering international security. Syamsuddin characterized the meeting as “productive and constructive,” referring to it as a reciprocal visit following Helez’s trip to Indonesia last year. Both sides reiterated their mutual respect and commitment to reinforcing bilateral defense cooperation as they navigate the evolving security landscape together.
