Jakarta. Indonesia and Canada are strengthening their peacekeeping training cooperation.

In August, both G20 countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in military cooperation, which covers bilateral and multilateral exercises, among others. They signed a defense-related MoU the following month. As a follow-up to these developments, Indonesian Ambassador to Canada Muhsin Syihab recently met with Peace Support Training Center or PSTC’s commander, Lieutenant Colonel P Carl Chevalier. 

"The target is to improve the capacity and operational standards of UN peacekeeping forces from both countries. We wish to enhance the role of peacekeepers, including the women,” Muhsin was quoted as saying in a press statement.

Indonesia -- as the fifth-largest contributor to UN troops -- plans on sharing its extensive field operational experience. Canada, which boasts technical expertise and traditional peacekeeping training methodologies, will help refine troop preparation in accordance with UN standards for highly complex military assignments.

They also explored the possibility of establishing a cooperation involving Indonesia, Canada, and the UN to standardize the peacekeeping training curriculum. If they proceed with the plan, it will likely turn Indonesia into a training hub for peacekeeping missions.

Indonesia has deployed 2,700 peacekeeping personnel who are currently serving in seven missions. Canada’s involvement in the peacekeeping matters currently puts emphasis on financial, logistical, and training support. Over 700 personnel of the Indonesian Armed Forces have undergone training at the PSTC and the Canadian Defense Academy. Two Indonesian personnel are undertaking specialized training at the Fort Frontenac military complex in Kingston.

Indonesia also pushes for female peacekeepers’ empowerment in line with the resolution that Jakarta had initiated when it presided over the UN Security Council in 2020. The resolution in question promotes women’s participation in peacekeeping processes.

"High-standard training is crucial to ensuring our female peacekeepers can create more effective, humane, and responsive peacekeeping operations," Muhsin said.

The PSTC Commander is expected to travel to Indonesia in the first half of 2026. His visit will likely explore opportunities for joint training programs and instructor exchanges, thereby strengthening both countries' role in peacekeeping missions.