U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his Indonesian counterpart Prabowo Subianto to strengthen defense ties amid growing Chinese naval activity in the Indo-Pacific region, the AP reported.

The two sides discussed ways to deepen the two countries' partnership, including by expanding interoperability and increasing investment in military education.

"The United States is proud to partner with you as we work together to advance our shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific" Austin said.

But Subianto emphasized Indonesia's neutral stance. Indonesia always tries to maintain the best possible relations with all countries, especially with all the major powers, he said.

"We are meeting as the world is grappling with assaults on the rules-based international order, especially Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine," Austin said.

While Indonesia and China have a generally positive relationship, Jakarta has expressed concern about China's invasion of its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea.

Subiantu noted that Indonesia considers China a friendly country, and the two countries have ways to deal with possible misunderstandings and disagreements over disputes over territorial waters. "We consider that we will be able to resolve them with dialogue," Subianto said. "However, we do emphasize that Indonesia will defend its sovereignty and independence."

Growing, the U.S. remains its dominant military power. Washington also has a security alliance with the Philippines and strong relations with other ASEAN members.