Indonesian Navy strengthens maritime diplomacy during visit to Japan

3 hours ago

Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) has strengthened bilateral ties with Japan through a series of courtesy calls to local government officials, security forces, and military personnel in Yokosuka, Japan.

Indonesian Navy Information Service Head First Admiral Tunggul in a statement on Tuesday said that the crew of warship KRI GNR-332, led by Colonel Ahmad Makmur Ikhlas, conducted the visits.

“This courtesy visit aims to carry out naval diplomacy as one of the priority programs set by Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali,” Tunggul said.

He expressed hope that the engagements would further deepen bilateral relations between Indonesia and Japan while strengthening military cooperation between the two nations.

Tunggul explained that the series of courtesy calls commenced on Monday with a visit to Yokosuka Deputy Mayor Kazuhiro Hirasawa.

“The meeting took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere, reflecting the strengthening of amicable relations between the Yokosuka city administration and the Indonesian Navy,” Tunggul said.

The Indonesian Navy delegation subsequently met with Yokosuka Police Station Chief Superintendent Hitoshi Kobayashi to enhance communication, build synergy, and ensure smooth operations while KRI GNR-332 is docked in Yokosuka.

Following this, the delegation visited Yokosuka Coast Guard Office Chief Rear Admiral Kondo Shuji to exchange information and discuss potential collaboration in navigational safety, maritime security, and professional defense ties.

To conclude the activities, the KRI GNR-332 commander paid a courtesy call to Captain David A. Huljack, commander of US Navy Destroyer Squadron 15, which is currently stationed at the US Fleet Activities Yokosuka naval base.

According to Tunggul, the meeting served as a vital opportunity to strengthen ties and enhance operational cooperation between the Indonesian and US navies.