United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono on Tuesday, placing strong emphasis on maintaining pressure against Iran, according to a State Department readout. Rubio called for continued efforts to cut the Iranian regime's access to funds used for "terrorism, ballistic missile production and other destabilizing activities."
The two went on to reaffirm their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and discussed expanding defense cooperation, including protecting navigation rights in the South China Sea. The meeting covered trade issues as well, with Rubio welcoming Indonesia's economic reforms. He also thanked Sugiono for supporting the return of Indonesian deportees from the United States.
"Secretary Rubio and Foreign Minister Sugiono underscored the importance of continuing to advance our partnership," the State Department said.