In a statement received here, Thursday, Indonesian Ambassador to Timor Leste Sahat Sitorus welcomed the arrival of both ships.
The ambassador remarked that the task force’s arrival can have a positive impact on the maritime defense of both countries.
"Surely, we are optimistic that the presence of our friends from the Indonesian Navy in this maritime diplomatic mission will have a positive impact on Timor Leste's maritime defense," he emphasized.
Sitorus was also upbeat about the mission bolstering ties between the two neighboring countries that share both land and maritime borders.
In the meantime, Commander of the IME-19B Port Visit Task Force, Navy Colonel Laut (P) Himawan informed Antara of the warm welcome extended to him and his entourage on arrival at the dock in Dili.
"We were welcomed with a dance performance and such a warm welcome in Timor Leste," he stated.
Timor Leste was selected as their destination to visit based on the strong emotional ties shared by both nations, in terms of the history and kinship between the people.
He further expounded that the Port Visit involving both Indonesian warships was chosen by the Indonesian Navy to conduct its diplomatic mission outside the country that was aimed at realizing peace and stability in the region and globally.
Along with boosting relations between the countries, the Port Visit can serve as a promotional medium to introduce cultural and tourist destinations as well as the production of the national defense industry.
"The Port Visit activity is expected to have a positive impact, especially in the political, economic, social, cultural, and security fields," he added. Related news: Habibie ever urged Xanana to focus on human resources development
Related news: PT Dahana to build explosives plant in Timor Leste
Translator: Kornelis Kaha/Aria Cindyara
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
