Thailand and Indonesia agreed to raise military cooperation

BANGKOK, 22 May 2015 (NNT) - Thailand and Indonesia have agreed to boost military and national security in various areas.

Defense Minister General Prawit Wongsuwan has visited Indonesia at the invitation of his counterpart, General Ryamizard Ryacudu.

Both have agreed to strengthen military ties, share information concerning land and sea securities, and boost military cooperation between the two nations.

According to General Prawit, the Thai and Indonesian Ministries of Defense have also addressed two important issues, namely Rohingya refugees and illegal fishing in Indonesian waters.

ASEAN nations have been invited to join a discussion in Thailand on May 29 to find solutions to the Rohingya crisis. The event will be hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In addition, the Thai government is trying to regulate the fishing industry, especially after a Thai fishing vessel was found in Indonesian territory. A committee will be established to liaise between the two countries and prevent to further illegal fishing activity.

As for the remaining Thai fishermen in Indonesia, General Ryamizard will seek cooperation from relevant units in Indonesia for their return to Thailand.

-- NNT 2015-05-22

Has Indoneasia also agreed to a security partnership agreement with China like Thailand?

The Thai military protrays itself as a "paper tiger."