"This is a very strategic moment for Indonesian Navy as the best and modern Royal navy war ship, HMS Daring, has come to Indonesia," stated Chief of Indonesian Navy Staff Admiral Marsetio here, on Friday.
He noted that the visit of HMS Daring to Indonesia is the first time for a Royal Navy fleet to come to Indonesia in the last 30 years.
Marsetio added that the Chief of Royal Navy Staff Admiral Sir George Zambellas has visited Indonesian Military Headquarter in Cilangkap, Jakarta to discuss potential military cooperation.
According to Marsetio, Indonesian and the Royal Navy had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in 2010 to enhance defense and military cooperation, particularly for the Navy.
Meanwhile, Admiral Zambellas stated that the visit of HMS Daring is aimed to enhance warm relations between Indonesia and the Royal Navy in order to develop maritime defense and security.
"Our perceptions of peace and security in the area are similar. We are also concerned with the cooperation and partnering potential to keep maritime security," Zambellas pointed out.
He added that Indonesia is an important country in SE Asia that has inspired the Royal Navy to build further cooperation in maritime security.
"The visit of a modern and powerful ship, HMS Daring, is a symbol of good relations between the Royal Navy and Indonesian Navy. We are keen to pursue this great opportunity. We are professionals who will work together at sea and maritime security," Zambellas affirmed.
The HMS Daring arrived in Jakarta on Friday at 9 a.m. local time. The ship, which is based in Englands Portsmouth, will leave Jakarta on Monday bound for Portsmouth.
The crew of HMS Daring will conduct several social activities along with the Indonesian Navy personnel such as cooking and soccer competitions, school visits and fun run in M.H Thamrin Street.
(B019/INE/H-YH)
EDITED BY INE
(B019/KR-BSR/A/H-YH)
Editor: Jafar M Sidik
Copyright © ANTARA 2014
