REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, TOKYO -- Indonesia supports Japan's adoption of a greater role in fostering stability and security in the region through cooperation across the region, including among regional organizations of Asian countries, stated President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

"As mentioned earlier, Indonesia understands Japanese aspirations to play a key role in the security field as a contributory means to garnering stability and security in Asia. Indonesia suggested that Japan needs to establish close cooperation with Indonesia, ASEAN countries, and other countries in order to contribute to peace efforts," Yudhoyono added.

The visiting president announced in a joint press statement with the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, following their meeting at the prime minister's office on Friday, that Indonesia had agreed on an enhanced role for the two countries to encourage stability and security in the region.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Abe noted that Indonesia and Japan share the same understanding of the significance of maintaining stability and security in the region.

"We also agreed to strengthen communication between ministries in the field of foreign relations and defense by holding meetings and dialogues," Abe emphasized.

In addition, Abe stated, "President Yudhoyono and I share the same strategic thoughts and are able to communicate on the security situation."

During the meeting with Prime Minister Abe, President Yudhoyono was accompanied by Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Hatta Rajasa, Industry Minister MS Hidayat, and Indonesian Ambassador to Japan M Luthfi.

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