The Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) has planned to deploy warships in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, to maintain security at the 42nd ASEAN Summit on May 9-11, 2023, TNI Commander Admiral Yudo Margono stated.
Margono pointed out that arrangements regarding the placement of defense equipment and terrain conditions in Labuan Bajo had been discussed at a recent meeting.
"Because the venue is at the seafront, we will ready warships. We will also adjust the defense equipment with the existing terrain on account of the narrow street (leading to the venue). We already discussed this matter yesterday and will discuss it again at the next meeting," the TNI commander stated at the TNI Headquarters here, Thursday.
However, Margono could not as yet furnish details of the security arrangements, as he had to discuss the matter with relevant parties and visit the area before finalizing the plan.
"We already discussed the matter yesterday and will discuss it again with relevant ministries and institutions. We will also ready defense equipment and personnel conducting the security mission," Margono stated.
Meanwhile, Margono said he would soon visit the ASEAN Summit venue in Labuan Bajo with Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo to observe the actual conditions there.
"Perhaps soon, I will inspect the terrain there with the police chief and military chiefs of staff to ensure (the ASEAN Summit) will take place safely and smoothly," he noted.
Earlier, during the 42nd ASEAN Summit security meeting at the TNI Headquarters on Monday (April 10), Margono instructed military top brass to ready emergency response plans to anticipate possible security risks during the international event.
"Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, cannot be predicted, but we must anticipate through our contingency plan," he remarked.
The commander also called on officials to take requisite preemptive measures to handle livestock, such as cows and goats, that could roam loose and block roads leading to the venue during D-day.
At the Monday meeting, the TNI commander also received reports from each unit commander of the 42nd ASEAN Summit integrated VVIP security joint command regarding their steps to prepare security arrangements for the summit.
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Editor : Mahdani
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