Inp.polri.go.id - Wellington. Vice President, Ma'ruf Amin, said that New Zealand's Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, has acknowledged Indonesia's persuasive efforts to release Susi Air Pilot Captain Philip Mark Mehrtens, who has been taken hostage bythe grip of an Armed Criminal Group (KKB) in Papua. Speaking after a bilateral meeting at the Speaker Lounge in the New Zealand Parliament on Tuesday (27/2/2024), he highlighted Indonesia's commitment to release Captain Mehrtens, prioritizing his safety through diplomatic persuasion, antaranews.com reported. "The approach is crucial to prevent unwanted outcomes, and he understands that the approach must be persuasive given the sensitivity of the matter," Vice President Ma'ruf said. He asserted that Indonesia understands  New Zealand's concerns about its citizen and reiterated Indonesia's dedication to release him. Emphasizing safety as the top priority, Vice President Ma'ruf highlighted ongoing efforts utilizing persuasive methods involving community and religious leaders. (mg/inp/pr/nm)