Marsudi made the statement after meeting with New Caledonia President Philippe Germain on the sidelines of the 2018 Our Ocean Conference (OOC) here on Tuesday.
The foreign affairs minister stated that the governments of Indonesia and New Caledonia are ready to continue to cooperate in the maritime field, considering the two countries are archipelago countries.
"We are talking about `ocean.` We have agreed to cooperate in eradicating `IUU Fishing`," Marsudi noted.
In Indonesia, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Susi Pudjiastuti has taken a strong stance towards the "IUU fishing" action. Her policy of sinking ships carrying out these actions has been praised nationally and internationally.
Given the transnational aspects of IUU fishing, Indonesia can benefit from strong collaboration with other relevant countries in the region.
The Indonesian government`s efforts to encourage maritime cooperation among countries by holding the OCC in Bali from Oct 29 to 30 will truly strengthen Indonesia in its fight against illegal fishing.
The OOC is seen as a momentum for Indonesia to voice its strong struggle against illegal fishing as a top priority.
The conference also provided an opportunity for Indonesia to re-emphasize commitments in the sustainable fisheries sector, sustainable blue economy, and maritime security.
OCC is an important event for Indonesia, which is believed to be the first country in Asia to carry out this fifth conference.
This shows that Indonesia is seen as capable of fighting for the issue of sovereignty and the right of the sea, both through maritime diplomacy and domestic policy.
By hosting OOC 2018, Indonesia will demonstrate leadership in the field of maritime affairs and fisheries, especially in dealing with the threats to the Indonesian sea.
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Reporting by Yuni Arisandy
Editing by Otniel Tamindael
Reporter: Antara
Editor: Yosep Hariyadi
Copyright © ANTARA 2018
