REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, BOGOR -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has urged Indonesia to maintain peace in Southeast Asia. "Japan will fully support the Association of Southeast Asian Nations that will enter its 60th year to affirm the principles of unity and centrality. To achieve this, the Indonesian leadership is absolutely necessary, and I am committed to supporting President Joko Widodo (Jokowi)," Abe stated at a joint press conference with the president at the Bogor Palace on Sunday.

He pointed out that the South China Sea issue has become a cause of concern for the international community that directly affects the stability and peace in the region. 

Abe also highlighted the North Korean issue during his meeting with President Jokowi to discuss the country's nuclear program that poses a serious threat to the region.

To improve cooperation in defense and security, both nations will later hold a "Two Plus Two" meeting in Indonesia. "Amid the spread of terrorism in Asia, we have agreed that Japan will cooperate with Indonesia to address the matter," Abe noted.

In line with Prime Minister Abe's stance, President Joko Widodo also wants to enhance defense cooperation with Japan through increased diplomatic relations. "Next year, Indonesia and Japan will celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations, and we have agreed that the theme of the celebration will be modern technology," President Jokowi stated.

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