WASHINGTON, June 03, 2016 — Defense Secretary Ash Carter met with Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu on the margins of the International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue today in Singapore, Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook said in a statement released following the meeting.
The two leaders exchanged views on the regional security environment in Southeast Asia and recent progress in multilateral security cooperation, the press secretary said.
Security Cooperation
Carter also discussed opportunities for increased regional operational cooperation, and expressed his appreciation to the Indonesian defense minister for his nation’s continued contributions to regional security, Cook said.
Carter and Ryacudu discussed the need for peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea in accordance with international law, the press secretary said.
Cook added that Carter noted the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea Arbitral Tribunal ruling on the Philippines-China claims will be binding on both parties.
Finally, the defense secretary reiterated the importance of continuing to strengthen defense ties with Indonesia in combating transnational threats, Cook said.
Carter and Ryacudu said they looked forward to the Defense Informal meeting between the U.S. and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations that is planned for late September in Hawaii, the press secretary said.