Jakarta, Nov. 12 -- Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Wednesday affectionately referred to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as "Albo," a nickname drawn from his surname, in a gesture that underscored the growing warmth between the two leaders and their nations.

The lighthearted moment took place aboard the Royal Australian Navy's amphibious assault ship HMAS Canberra in Sydney after both leaders delivered a joint statement highlighting strengthened cooperation in defense and security.

When asked about the state of Indonesia-Australia relations, Prabowo said the two countries had long maintained close ties, recalling his past connections with former Australian prime ministers Gough Whitlam, Bob Hawke, and Paul Keating. ...