An Indonesian Air Force F-16 Jet Fighter flies over an Indonesian navy warship during an operation in waters off the Natuna islands in January 2020. (Antara Foto via Reuters)JAKARTA: Indonesia says it is worried about an arms race in the region after neighbouring Australia announced plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines as part of a new Indo-Pacific security alliance with the United States and Britain. Known as AUKUS, the new alliance will help Australia get the technology to deploy nuclear-powered submarines as part of agreement intended to respond to growing Chinese power. In a statement on Friday, the Indonesian foreign ministry said it noted with caution Australia’s decision to acquire the submarines and said it was “deeply concerned over the continuing arms race and power projection in the region”. The foreign ministry called on Australia to maintain its commitment to regional peace and stability, and reiterated its respect for international law.

Source: Bangkok Post September 18, 2021 06:45 UTC