"At present, the Indonesian military is ranked 19th in the world or 9th in the Asia-Pacific region, but in the future, our target is to become the 10th strongest in the world," Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu stated.Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The Indonesian military (TNI) aims to become the tenth strongest in the world by 2019, Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu stated here on Thursday.
"At present, the Indonesian military is ranked 19th in the world or 9th in the Asia-Pacific region, but in the future, our target is to become the 10th strongest in the world," Ryacudu remarked.
He made the statement while giving directives to the 311 high-ranking TNI officials.
He emphasized that the new government supported the TNI in its development efforts to achieve its target to have a minimum essential force.
The minister pointed out that he had noticed a downfall in patriotism among the community members in the last few years.
With regard to that, he asserted that state defense is not solely the responsibility of the TNI but also of every element of the society including TNI, the government, and the citizens.
He noted that the involvement of all the elements was the core of the total defense concept. In view of that, he highlighted the importance of increasing patriotism among all citizens.
On the occasion, TNI Commander General Moeldoko expressed optimism that the target would be achieved with the support of all parties, including the Indonesian public in general.
"I think we have to be optimistic because if our economic development runs well, it will certainly help to increase the budget. That is our hope and the aim of the new defense minister," he pointed out.
On the occasion, the defense minister issued directives regarding territorial and personnel supervision and the importance of maintaining aggressiveness among the TNI members.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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