REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister Wiranto offered counter-terrorism cooperation to the government of Myanmar.

The minister was directly instructed by President Joko Widodo to specifically discuss the need to increase counter-terrorism cooperation with the Myanmar officials, since the threat of terrorism and radicalism must be handled well in advance.

"The threat of terrorism and radicalism is everywhere, in all countries, including Indonesia and Myanmar," Wiranto stated, through a written statement received by Antara, on Tuesday.

Considered as cross-border crime, terrorism must be handled by strong regional and international cooperation. Indonesia has been carrying out measures to eradicate radicalism and terrorism using soft power and hard power approaches.

"Our ability of detection or prevention is very important to cripple the possibility of terror attacks," Wiranto noted.

During his visit, Wiranto discussed the issues with Myanmar's National Security Advisor U Thaung Tun, Home Affairs Minister Lt. General Kyaw Swe, and Defense Minister Lt. General Sein Win.

Myanmar has been part of family for Indonesia since both countries have a long history against foreign colonization. As fellow ASEAN members, Myanmar and Indonesia continue to work closely in maintaining the centrality and unity of ASEAN.

Wiranto added that Indonesia is following closely and understanding the complexity of the situation in Rakhine State. In this case, President Joko Widodo is committed to continue to provide humanitarian assistance while upholding Myanmar's sovereignty.

"As a retired general, who was once the Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces, we have a common understanding of the importance of national unity of the state, the price of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state, and the role of the military in it," Wiranto remarked.

Meanwhile, the Myanmar government welcomes Indonesia's proposals and offers for cooperation in the field of radicalism and counter-terrorism.

Nevertheless, Myanmar will place greater emphasis on the importance of bilateral cooperation in the handling of radicalism and terrorism, especially with Indonesia being considered "the true friend of Myanmar." 

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