A joint scientific mission conducted by China and Indonesia has made a significant accomplishment, establishing a new record for deep-sea diving in Indonesia. Their submersible descended to a depth of 7,178 meters in the Java Trench within the Indian Ocean, bravely braving the immense pressures found in the ocean's depths.
Collaboration and Achievement
The collaborative expedition, which occurred between the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency, spanned from February 23 to March 23. The primary contributor to their success was the "Fendouzhe" manned submersible, supplied by the CAS Institute of Deep-Sea Science and Engineering. Noteworthy is the fact that the "Fendouzhe" is currently the world's deepest-reaching manned submersible, capable of reaching depths of up to 10,000 meters underwater.
Commendations and Future Prospects
The successful mission garnered commendation from both parties involved. Lu Kang, China's ambassador to Indonesia, highlighted the deepening research cooperation between the two nations in marine sciences. He expressed optimism that this collaborative endeavor would lead to further high-quality research outcomes in the future, aiding in the development of a sustainable "blue economy."
Vision for Enhanced Cooperation
Indonesia’s coordinating minister for maritime affairs and investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, shared similar sentiments. He perceived the expedition as a significant moment, marking the beginning of strengthened maritime collaboration between China and Indonesia. He envisioned an expanded partnership in scientific research and the nurturing of more Indonesian scientists and engineers to drive the nation's marine science initiatives forward.
This groundbreaking dive is not just a scientific milestone; it also symbolizes a deepening alliance between China and Indonesia in the exploration of the vast mysteries lying beneath the ocean's surface. The potential for future joint research holds the promise of advancements in marine biology, geology, and resource exploration, ultimately enhancing our understanding of the oceans.
