JAKARTA/PERTH, Nov 1: Indonesia summonsed Australia’s ambassador today to explain media reports his embassy in Jakarta was used to spy on Southeast Asia’s biggest country as part of a US-led global spying network.
Indonesia this week called in the chief US diplomat in Jakarta over similar allegations, while China on Thursday demanded an explanation from the United States after the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper reported Australian embassies across Asia were part of the US spying operation.
News of Australia’s role in a US-led surveillance network could damage relations with Indonesia, Australia’s nearest Asian neighbour and a key strategic ally.
“Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa has demanded an explanation from the Australian ambassador in Jakarta about the existence and use of surveillance facilities in the Australian embassy here,” Indonesia’s foreign ministry said in a statement.
“The reported activities absolutely do not reflect the spirit of a close and friendly relationship between the two neighbours and are considered unacceptable by the government of Indonesia.”
The Herald said its reports were based on US whistleblower Edward Snowden and a former Australian intelligence officer. (AGENCIES)
Follow our WhatsApp channel