South Korea and Indonesia agreed Thursday to boost bilateral cooperation on trade, investment and defense during summit talks between President Lee Myung-bak and Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

During their meeting in Indonesia, Yudhoyono asked for Lee’s cooperation in helping South Korea to become a key partner in Indonesia’s economic development plans. He also proposed bolstering defense collaboration, including in the areas of tanks, submarines, and jet trainers.

Yudhoyono added that he would send an envoy to South Korea early next year to discuss such collaboration efforts in more detail.

In response, Lee said he would do his best to assist in the development of Indonesia.

Lee added that South Korea will increase development aid to foster economic independence in developing nations and will proactively review ways to support the establishment of democratic systems in Asia.