The first joint military naval exercise organized by the member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) started in Indonesia’s Southern Natuna Sea.
The ASEAN Solidarity Exercise, which started at a time when reactions to China’s actions in the South China Sea were increasing, is expected to last 5 days.
Speaking to the press on Batam Island, where the opening ceremony of the exercise was held, Indonesian Defense Forces Commander Yudo Margono said that within the scope of the first ASEAN joint military naval exercise, combat support units will conduct patrols and maritime security, as well as search and rescue, humanitarian aid and disaster relief distribution practices.
Margono emphasized that the exercise aims to strengthen military ties between ASEAN members and said, “This is not a war exercise because ASEAN is more economy-oriented. The trainings are more related to social events.” said.
Pointing out that ASEAN countries agreed to organize joint military exercises annually, Margono stated that real combat training will be carried out in exercises in which air and ground troops will be involved in the coming years.
Margono noted that countries conducting exploration activities in the region should not violate Indonesia’s rights and comply with international maritime law.
It is stated that although Defense Minister Margono had previously announced that the exercise in question would be held in the Northern Natuna Sea, he changed the exercise location to the Southern Natuna Sea in order to avoid possible reactions from China.
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