MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I welcome the constructive outcomes of the Consultative Group on Indonesia
(CGI) meeting concluding in Tokyo today. In the meeting the international community
pledged strong support for Indonesia's program of economic reform and democratisation.
I am pleased that Australia has been able to announce a pledge of around $120
million for 2000 2001. This confirms our commitment to providing practical
assistance to support the Indonesian Government's reform efforts.
Australia welcomes the Indonesian delegation's constructive responses to donor
concerns expressed during the meeting.
The Group called attention to the importance of implementing the economic reform
program agreed between the International Monetary Fund and the Indonesian Government.
Particular emphasis was placed on the need for quick progress in debt restructuring,
asset sales, legal reforms and forestry. Also emphasised was the importance
of carefully managing the decentralisation process. Progress in these areas
is crucial to building the confidence needed for substantial new investment
in Indonesia and ongoing economic recovery.
Participants also emphasised the link between the security situation in Indonesia
and renewed investor confidence. Australia, along with many delegations, expressed
its concern about the situation in West Timor and the need for Indonesian authorities
to establish effective security there. This is an essential pre-condition if
refugees are to be repatriated and resettled free of fear and intimidation.
If significant progress is made towards resolving the security situation in
West Timor, Australia is ready to provide substantial support towards a credible
international plan of assistance for the refugees in West Timor. Through its
overseas development program, Australia will work with the Government of Indonesia
on two major development challenges. They are: improving the effectiveness,
transparency and accountability of institutions and civil society; and, responding
to the needs of vulnerable groups by meeting acute humanitarian needs and helping
to build more sustainable livelihoods for poor communities.
Implementing the Indonesian Government's extensive reform program is a major
challenge and will require continued commitment by Indonesia and the international
community. The outcomes of the CGI meeting in Tokyo are an expression of that
commitment.
Media Contacts:
James Baker (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 / 0419 206 890
Fionna Douglas (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 / 0412 804 489