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Minister confident cooperation in Sulu Sea will defeat piracy
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Joint force: Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu (center) and his counterparts, Malaysian Defense Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein (right) and Philippine National Defense Minister Delfin Lorenzana, join hands at the opening ceremony of the Trilateral Defense Ministers' Meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Aug. 2. (JP/Zul Trio Anggono)
D
efense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu expressed on Tuesday his optimism that ongoing cooperation between Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines could secure the Sulu Sea from rampant piracy.
The Sulu Sea, located in the southwestern Philippines, has long been a source of trouble for the three countries, as the Abu Sayyaf militant group has repeatedly kidnapped sailors, including those from Indonesia, in exchange for ransom.
"Many hostages have been rescued and more than 300 Abu Sayyaf militants have died. Coal transportation is now safe in the Sulu Sea," Ryamizard told reporters at his office.
(Read also: Nations unite against Abu Sayyaf group)
Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines have committed to strengthening cooperation in securing the Sulu Sea, including by conducting joint patrols to secure the tri-border area. Coal shipments from resource-rich Kalimantan sail through these waters. (fac/hwa)
