China looks to Indonesia for diplomatic resolution after coastguards’ Natuna encounters + More

China looks to Indonesia for diplomatic resolution after coastguards’ Natuna encounters

On Monday, Indonesia’s coast guard “drove out” a China Coast Guard cutter that was shadowing a survey vessel in Indonesian waters of the South China Sea. On Tuesday, the Chinese vessel was back again in the same spot, according to maritime security expert Ray Powell.

…

Geo Coral is a Norwegian-owned geophysical vessel flagged in Norway. She is operating under charter to PT Pertamina, Indonesia’s state-owned oil company, to conduct a 3D seismic survey off the Natuna Islands. “Pertamina East Natuna is focusing on oil and gas exploration activities in the East Natuna Working Area [East Natuna gas field], which has great potential to contribute to national energy security,” said a Pertamina spokesman on Tuesday.

[2010] Fugro takes delivery of Geo Coral

Fugro has contracts with the U.S. government.

Fugro – Wikipedia (archived)

East Natuna, a sizable natural gas field, is situated off the northern Indonesian island of Natuna in the South China Sea in territory disputed by Indonesia and China.

[10-21-2024] SeaLight: Indonesia Expels China Coast Guard Ship Harassing Research Vessel

As an aside, new Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was inaugurated two days ago on 20 October 2024. While the two events may be unrelated, it’s worth noting that China often tests new leaders as a means of pushing the boundaries of their gray-zone aggressions.

[09-26-2024] The following video clips are from: Why Should We Care About Indonesia’s New President?

Guest: Gita Wirjawan / Ancora Foundation