"I would like to explain that the US government stands side by side with Indonesia to counter the threat of terrorism," the United States Ambassador to Indonesia Robert O. Blake informed journalists here on Friday.
The ambassador offered condolences to the families of those killed during the bomb blasts and shootout that took place in a Starbucks cafe and near a police post in Jalan Thamrin, Central Jakarta.
"On behalf of the Government of the United States, I offer condolences to the families of those who were killed," he stated.
In addition, Blake lauded the performance of the police for handling the attacks swiftly. As a result, the police could minimize casualties during the incident.
Blake and his entourage met several Papuan activists, Papuas governor, and its police chief.
They also visited numerous villages in the district of Jayapura.
The ambassador is scheduled to meet Commander of the Military Regional Command (Kodam) XVII/Cenderawasih Maj. Gen. Hinsa Siburian tonight.
With regard to his visit to the Komba Elementary School, the ambassador was keen to observe the performance of the USAID program, which has been running in the past few years in the areas of education and health.
Earlier, the ASEAN member states had expressed their full support to the Indonesian government to combat terrorism following the attacks in Jakarta, Indonesia, on January 14, 2016, which led to the loss of innocent lives, injuries, and damage to property.
In a written statement received by ANTARA on Friday, the ASEAN has encouraged Indonesia to bring the perpetrators of the heinous act to justice.
The ASEAN remains united and committed to working with the international community to further intensify cooperation necessary to tackle terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever, and by whomsoever it is committed.
The ASEAN extends its deepest sympathies and condolences to the Indonesian government and people, especially to the families of the victims of this attack.
The ASEAN member countries commend the swift and courageous actions of the Indonesian security forces in response to the attack.
The bomb attacks and series of shootings in Jakartas business district on Thursday led to seven fatalities and injuries to 20 others.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2016
