Vietnamese Ambassador to Indonesia Hoang Anh Tuan visits arrested Vietnamese fishermen before their trip returning home.(Photo: VNA)
Jakarta (VNA) – Vietnamese Ambassador to Indonesia Hoang Anh Tuan recently met with Indonesian Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Susi Pudjiastuti to discuss bilateral efforts to curb illegal fishing and boost fishery cooperation.
Vietnam has recommended local fishermen respect fishing regulations enforced by the two governments, Tuan said.
Factors, including the unfinished demarcation of the two countries’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) boundary, have contributed to worsening the violations and the number of Vietnamese arrested, he stressed.
He also expressed his concern over Indonesia sinking seized Vietnamese boats.
Tuan then put forth some measures to reduce its impact on bilateral ties, which Susi Pudjiastuti said she would consider seriously.
The Indonesian Minister said Indonesia is willing to assist arrested Vietnamese in returning home as soon as possible.
She said the sides should stimulate their maritime cooperation and work to create a legal environment to restrict unlawful fishing.
She also introduced a local annual forum on seas and fisheries, scheduled for June 11 and 12 in Jakarta, which will soon become a monthly event to promote partnership in the field.
The number of Vietnamese fishermen captured by Indonesia for illegal fishing in the first five months of 2016, was almost double the figure for the same period last year.-VNA
