Australians join RI navy

JAKARTA (JP): Two Australian navy officers, Maj. Gregory J. Paek and Capt. Richard, will join this year's Indonesian Navy service operation Surya Baskara Jaya in Irian Jaya, commander of the Sorong naval-base, Lt. Col. A.T. Aprianto, said last week.

The participation of the two Australian medical doctors is part of the Indonesian-Australian naval cooperation, Aprianto was quoted by the Antara news agency as saying.

He said they would be placed in the isolated islands on the southern coast of Irian Jaya together with the operation's task force personnel.

Aprianto said the operation would not only provide medical service to the local residents but also conduct activities like workshops and sports exhibitions. (02)