Jokowi Comments on Natuna Dispute: No Bargaining Sovereignty
Translator
Editor
6 January 2020 17:04 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo announced that Indonesia's sovereignty over the Natuna Sea cannot be bargained for. The Jokowi also confirmed that statements made by Indonesian State - Ministers addressing the Indonesia - China border dispute are on point.
"I would say, all of the statements [mentioned by state-ministers] are already well delivered, [which asserts] there is no bargaining in terms of sovereignty and our nation's territory," said the President in opening the plenary meeting at the State Palace on Monday, January 6, 2020.
The bilateral relationship between Indonesia and China recently experienced high tension as a Chinese coast guard vessel crossed into the Indonesian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) a few days ago.
The Indonesian government has officially announced its stance in this maritime border dispute; firstly, Indonesia argued that China has violated Indonesia's EEZ and strongly rejects China's claim regarding its traditional fishing ground.
Secondly, Indonesia rejects China's claim over the North Natuna sea which they base on its Nine-Dash Line. Third, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) will intensively increase its operations over the Natuna Sea. Lastly, the Indonesian government will increase the economic activities along Indonesia's EEZ.
AHMAD FAIZ IBNU SANI
