Jakarta Globe, July 16, 2010
The aftermath of the West Atlas rig explosion, seen in this file photo, and the massive oil spill that came as a result is being assessed by ministers from Indonesia and Australia. (AP Photo/PTTEP Australasia)
The Indonesian and Australian governments have decided to take action on the oil pollution in the Timor waters off Indonesia resulting from the Montara oil field explosion in August 2009, a minister said on Thursday.
“The fact is that both the Indonesian and Australian governments are in the same position and concerned that the oils spill have affected the environment,” said Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa.
Both countries have conducted environmental research on the matter, he said in a joint press conference after meeting his Australian counterpart Stephen Smith at his office.
Marty said that both governments hold PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP) Australasia responsible.
A special meeting led by the Indonesian Transportation Minister was held to establish a team to mediate with PTTEP.
“All we have to do is to develop a synergy with the Australian government in strengthening our efforts,” Marty said.
The Australian Foreign and Trade Minister, Stephen Smith, said that Australian Minister of Resources and Energy and Minister for Tourism Martin Ferguson made an inquiry of the causes and asked for an assessment from the Indonesian government.
Antara
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