US, Indonesia commit to South China Sea defence in 'strategic dialogue'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken listens as Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi talks to members of the media in Washington, on Aug 3, 2021. - Reuters

WASHINGTON (Reuters): US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Tuesday (Aug 3) the launch of a "strategic dialogue" with Indonesia, and Washington said the two countries committed to working together on issues that include defending freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.

Meeting in Washington, Blinken and Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi also committed to working together against Covid-19 and the climate crisis and to boost bilateral trade and economic ties, the State Department said.