Russia Signs $1 Billion Defense Deal With Indonesia

Putin (left) with Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (epa) September 6, 2007 -- Russia and Indonesia today signed a $1-billion deal that will allow Indonesia to buy dozens of helicopters, tanks, and submarines from Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is on his first official visit to Indonesia, witnessed the signing of the defense deal as well as several agreements on mining and oil exploration in Indonesia.

Speaking at a news conference, Putin said that he had also discussed counterterror efforts with Indonesian leaders. "Our partners and we are united in the belief that the central role of the United Nations in organizing collective efforts against this evil must be strengthened," Putin said.

Putin stopped in Jakarta for a one-day visit on his way to Sydney for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.

(AFP, ITAR-TASS)