Officially opened on Thursday, the 3^rd International Maritime Security Symposium (IMSS) 2017 aims to tackle various global and regional maritime security issues.

Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff Adm. Ade Supandi said the symposium was important because many maritime security issues needed to be discussed. They included the rise of a new maritime power, the discovery of new oil fields, transnational maritime crime, maritime environmental destruction, maritime terrorism and sea piracy.

“Therefore, by walking collectively and having mutual understanding, any challenge to good order at sea will be solved and our parties will achieve their goals. It is hoped this cooperation will solve such problems in the area,” said Ade.

Eleven countries are being represented by their Navy chiefs, including Australian Navy Chief Vice Adm. Timothy William Barrett and Philippine Navy Chief Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph S. Mercado. 

Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister Wiranto delivered his keynote speech, in which he emphasized the increased complexity of maritime security issues.

“All of these situations demand stronger cooperation among states and Navies to maintain good order at sea and maritime security,” he said.

Barrett expressed his enthusiasm about the organizing of the symposium. “I think it’s extremely important that we meet on a regular basis through things like this symposium. I hope I can meet my Indonesian counterparts and meet the country’s Navy Chief of Staff on a very regular basis,” he emphasized. (ebf)

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