Minister Susi Burns Vessels, Minister Retno Gets Protests

Minister Susi Burns Vessels, Minister Retno Gets Protests

Foreign Affairs Minister, Retno LP Marsudi, got protests from the neighboring countries whose vessels were sunk by Indonesian government due to illegal fishing in Indonesia. Therefore, Retno is ready to clarify it to the protesting countries.

Retno asserted everything decided by President Jokowi has been suitable with law. “This issue must be seen from law enforcement points of view,” Retno said responding protests from Vietnam and China.

Retno explained the policy to sink foreign vessels conducting illegal fishing has been known by all ambassadors of the neighboring countries. Indonesian ambassador has also supported law enforcement through communication with the related countries. Retno wondered over the protest issues since all parties support it. “When handing credential letters, other countries affiliated to Indonesia also support this law enforcement,” Retno said.

Related to the complaints from Vietnam and China, the minister admitted she has not received any letters yet. However, once again, she ensured this is purely law enforcement. “We did it based on the prevailing procedures. Its implementation is also important and we did it. Therefore, there is nothing wrong. We enforce law and follow all procedures,” she added.

In separate location, Susi started to allow Vietnamese vessels to enter Indonesian waters. It is conducted after she received a letter from Ba Ria-Vung Tau Provincial Government, Vietnam asking Indonesian government to allow its vessel and crews to take shelter in Indonesian waters to prevent Hagupit Typhoon.

The letter sent through Indonesian Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City to Vietnam Embassy in Indonesia detailed there were 1,928 Vietnam vessels carrying 13,399 vessel crews needing protection from the typhoon.

Since it was an emergency situation, Susi granted the request requiring them to immediately leave Indonesian waters within 2 weeks.

“I also appreciate Vietnam government realizing their action is wrong but since it is due to typhoon, it is alright,” Susi added.

Moreover, she also explained so far, the neighboring countries’ awareness to Indonesian sovereignty has been established. (Rakyat Merdeka)