Indonesia asks Australia about territorial violation

The Indonesian government Friday demanded a formal clarification regarding the recent instances of intrusion by the Australian navy into its waters.

Agus R. Barnas, spokesman of Indonesia's coordinating ministry for politics, law and security, said the Indonesian government deplored and rejected the violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity by the Australian vessels, Xinhua reported.

"Indonesia asks for formal clarification through diplomatic means with regard to the said violation," Barnas told a press conference at the ministry.

The Australian vessels entered Indonesian waters several weeks ago, while trying to turn back asylum seekers from entering the Australian waters.

Australia apologised Friday for the incursions into the Indonesian waters.

The Indonesian government also sought assurances from the Australian government that such incidents would not be repeated.

"Indonesia, therefore, demands that such violation will not recur in the future," said Barnas.

The Indonesian government has slammed Australia's "turn back boats" policy, which the Indonesia government sees has the potential to infringe into its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

"Indonesia, for its part, will intensify its maritime patrol in areas where violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity is at risk," said Barnas.