This is a process of diplomacy between Indonesia and Japan, and we are sending our inquiries, but they have yet to answer. We hope there can be a decision taken soon so we can also make a decision
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The government will continue diplomatic efforts with Japanese authorities to ensure the smooth evacuation of 74 Indonesian nationals aboard the Diamond Princess cruise liner in Japan's Yokohama waters, President Joko Widodo stated. "This is a process of diplomacy between Indonesia and Japan, and we are sending our inquiries, but they have yet to answer. We hope there can be a decision taken soon so we can also make a decision," President Joko Widodo said n the District of Pelalawan in Riau, Friday.

He has provided various options for evacuation, which include the air or sea route, President said, according to the statement from the Press, Media and Information Bureau at the Presidential Secretariat.

"We have yet to decide on whether they will be evacuated on a ship, straight to the hospital, or evacuated by an aircraft. I believe we can soon decide," he said.

The government is prepared to evacuate the Indonesian nationals, he assured.

"We are in the process of preparing but we have yet to decide. We have also prepared the hospital, but for other related matters we have yet to come to a decision," he continued.

The Diamond Princess cruise liner has been under quarantine after several passengers and crew members were infected with the coronavirus or the COVID-19, including four Indonesian nationals who are currently being treated in a hospital in Japan.

There is a total of 78 Indonesians working as crew members and aside from the four being treated, the rest of the 74 Indonesians are still on the ship.

In a statement received in Jakarta, Thursday, February 20, the President said that the government continued to ensure that all Indonesian citizens were treated in accordance with the World Health Organization's protocols.

"We want to ensure that they are being treated according to the health protocol issued by the WHO. Right now there are 74 Indonesians that are still on board. We are still discussing them with authorities in Japan," he said.

Indonesia, through the embassy in Japan, is also communicating with all Indonesian citizens who are still on the cruise ship. The Indonesian embassy also provides logistical assistance and coordinates with several relevant parties to ensure protection for Indonesian citizens. (INE)
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Translator: Indra Arief Pribadi/Aria Cindy
Editor: Suharto
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