During the meeting, China and ASEAN countries also agreed to continue various practical cooperation projects in the field of marine marine scientific research, environmental protection and search and rescue operation at sea, step up dialogue and communication, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and jointly uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea.
At the 20th ASEAN Chief of Defense Forces Meeting (ACDFM) which took place in Bali, the Government of Indonesia through TNI Commander Yudo Margono announced plans to hold joint military exercises with ASEAN countries next September 2023 in the South China Sea. The joint exercise will later be themed ASEAN Solidity Exercise in Natuna. The material includes maritime security, SAR and social services in the Natuna area. The joint exercise is expected to increase the solidarity of ASEAN countries in maintaining regional stability in the North Natuna region near the South China Sea.
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Conclusion
Indonesia through ASEAN continues to strive to minimize the potential for increased tension in the South China Sea with various efforts. Starting from various diplomacy efforts, the ASEAN Declaration on the South China Sea, ASEAN's Six Point Principles on the South China Sea, the Code of Conduct (CoC) to the start of the ASEAN country's first military drills in the South China Sea in September 2023. These various steps were taken to reaffirm Indonesia's stance which wants to reinforce the sovereignty of ASEAN countries in the South China Sea region. Even though until now there have been no signs that the South China Sea conflict will end, Indonesia is still trying to resolve this dispute peacefully.
Reference
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