Troops ready to safeguard summit

DENPASAR, Bali: At least 5,000 military and police personnel are ready to safeguard the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) ministerial meeting from Oct. 5 to Oct. 6, and the ASEAN Summit from Oct. 7 to Oct. 8 in Nusa Dua, Bali.

"A few days ahead of the Summit, all troops will hold a joint exercise here in Denpasar aimed at anticipating possible security threats during the summit," Indonesian Military (TNI) chief of general affairs Lt. Gen. Djamari Chaniago said on Monday.

He said the event would serve as a test for Indonesia to show the world that the country is now safe and secure.

"If the leaders of the nations feel safe to attend the Summit here in Bali and no security problem happens during the event, this will certainly encourage other people to come to Indonesia," Djamari said.

Participating in the Summit are 14 presidents and prime ministers of ASEAN member countries plus Japan, China, South Korea and India.

Jet fighters, four helicopters, tanks, water cannons and other high-tech equipment are in place to ensure the safety of the VIPs. The Navy has also prepared seven warships to guard Bali waters during the event. -- JP