Indonesia Summons Australian Envoy over Asylum Seekers

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia summoned the Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Greg Moriarty as to further address the issue relating to asylum seekers. Indonesia is trying to stress its objection against the recently adopted policy by the Australian government about its decision on making all asylum seekers ineligible for a place in Australia’s humanitarian refugee programs.

"In response to the Australian policy, I deliver the message as being told by Mrs. Minister of Foreign Affairs," said the Foreign Minister Spokesman Michael Tene at the Office of The Ministry of Foreign Relations on Tuesday (11/25/2014).

Despite the fact that the Ministry of Foreign Relations already confirmed Moriarty’s awareness of the summon being made earlier, Michael Tene has not provided the details of when the Australian representative will come to the Ministry of Foreign Relations office.

He only assures the public that the Australian government will respond to the appeal. He does not give further confirmation as to when the response will be made.

"The Australian Embassy representative will deliver the objections being made by Indonesia to its government officials in Indonesia," Tene explained.

A week ago, The Australian Immigration Minister, Scott Morrison issued a new policy that is quite controversial. They declared a policy that states all asylum seekers will be deported back to Indonesia at any circumstances.

The policy is viewed to be unfair. The Indonesian government requests for discussions on finding the solutions for this problem. This has to involve three parties, the resident country, transit country and the destination. (Akp/Riz)