This visit underscores the Netherlands’ dedication to fostering stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region, a commitment that was first articulated during the Shangri-La Dialogue in 2022 by Dutch Minister of Defence Kasja Ollongren. Her promise to deploy a Dutch frigate to the region every two years has become a cornerstone of the Netherlands' Indo-Pacific strategy, reaffirmed in 2023 in discussions with her Indonesian counterpart, Minister of Defence and President-Elect Prabowo Subianto.

The visit of HNLMS Tromp to Jakarta goes beyond a simple port call; it represents a tangible step towards strengthening bilateral ties. The Dutch Ambassador to Indonesia, Lambert Grijns, highlighted the significance of this event, stating, “This visit in Jakarta is an opportunity to enhance our bilateral cooperation and highlights our engagement to a secure and stable Indo-Pacific region, including in the maritime field. We are committed to continue to broaden our relationship with Indonesia, and with this port visit we show we walk the talk.”

HNLMS Tromp, a flagship of the Royal Netherlands Navy, is not just a symbol of advanced maritime technology but also of the Netherlands' commitment to global security. The ship recently completed critical missions in the Red Sea, contributing to maritime security operations Prosperity Guardian and Aspides. Its current voyage through the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean to the Indo-Pacific underscores the Netherlands' resolve to build and maintain partnerships that enhance global maritime security.

As a nation with deep roots in trade, the Netherlands has a vested interest in ensuring the free passage of goods through key maritime routes, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, a region of growing geopolitical and economic importance. Indonesia, with its strategic location, plays a pivotal role in these dynamics. The visit of HNLMS Tromp aligns with discussions held during the annual Strategic Talks between the governments of Indonesia and the Netherlands, where both nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations across various sectors, including military cooperation, economic partnerships, climate action, and security.

During its stay in Jakarta, the 200-strong crew of HNLMS Tromp engaged in joint training exercises with the Indonesian Navy, strengthening the operational ties between the two forces. A high-level session was also organized to highlight Dutch engagement in the Indo-Pacific, focusing on themes such as connectivity, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and inclusive trade.

This visit not only celebrates the enduring friendship between Indonesia and the Netherlands but also sets the stage for future collaborations, particularly in the areas of maritime security and economic partnership. As both nations continue to work together, this event serves as a reminder of the shared values and mutual interests that bind them, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the Indo-Pacific region.

Read more about HNLMS Tromp here.