Jakarta, Nov. 14 -- Indonesia and other ASEAN member states signed the ASEAN Treaty on Extradition Friday, marking a major step in regional efforts to combat cross-border crime, Indonesian Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas said.

The signing took place at the 13th ASEAN Law Ministers Meeting (ALAWMM) in Manila after prolonged negotiations.

"This historic instrument, first mandated in the 1976 Bali Concord, will restrict criminals' movements and prevent ASEAN from becoming a safe haven," Supratman said in a statement confirmed in Jakarta.

Supratman added that Indonesia will personally oversee the treaty's ratification process.

Another key agenda at ALAWMM 13 focused on strengthening civil and commercial legal cooperation.

Supratman sai...