Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu also hoped that no military efforts would be needed to liberate the 10 Indonesian nationals.Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said the government is still trying diplomatic negotiations to secure the release of 10 Indonesian citizens, who were kidnapped by the Filipino Abu Sayyaf group last week.
"We are still carrying out diplomacy and negotiation efforts. Hopefully, it is for the best because using military force will certainly have an impact," said Ryamizard before attending a plenary cabinet meeting at the main building of the States Secretary, here on Thursday.
Ryamrizard said that soft power efforts had been made by the Indonesian government because the crime took place in the Philippines' territory.
Therefore, the Indonesian government is still waiting for diplomacy and negotiation results.
Minister Ryamizard also hoped that no military efforts would be needed to liberate the 10 Indonesian nationals.
"Deployment of military operations is feared as it could cause casualties. If the casualties are among the terrorist it�s no problem, but it would be a great shame if our citizens also became victims," said the minister.
Ryamizard said the Indonesian military is currently on standby if needed for the liberation.
With just one day left before the proposed dead line, Ryamizard expects the negotiation efforts to at least result in the postponement of the deadline set by the kidnappers.
"Hopefully with these negotiations the date may be pushed back," said the minister.
Ryamrizard also stated that the ransom money demanded by the kidnappers has already been prepared, but the minister underlined that this is not the governments money.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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