ASEAN SECRETARIAT
JAKARTA
INDONESIA

NEWS RELEASE

30 OCTOBER 2002

BALI BLASTS COULD THREATEN INDONESIA’S ECONOMIC RECOVERY, SAYS MINISTER

JAKARTA (Oct 30) – Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said the tragedy of the bombings in Bali can impede Indonesia’s efforts to rebuild a healthy and thriving economy.

Speaking at the opening of the ASEAN Marketing 2002 Conference today, Mr. Bambang said the spate of violence in the country has destroyed the values of humanity and threatened the safety and security of Indonesia.

“The government of Indonesia condemns the brutal attacks of terrorism,” said Mr. Bambang. “The Bali bombings as well as bombings in other places are intended to destroy our nation and to humble us in front of the international community. It is aimed at dividing us through mutual recriminations and causing the economic crisis in Indonesia to worsen.”

“Terrorism is a crime against humanity,” he stressed. “And we are determined to fight  terrorism. Many legislations and steps towards capacity-building including the development of policies and strategies against terrorism will be undertaken.”

Mr. Bambang said there is a need for international cooperation and coordination to combat terrorist networks and activities and noted the assistance of neighbouring ASEAN countries, the United States, the European Union and Japan in curbing terrorism and maintaining stability and security order which are crucial for the development of Indonesia and the region.

“I am determined to improve the security situation in Indonesia and to enhance solidarity in our efforts at socio-economic development,” said Mr. Bambang. “We have to bring about a positive image by fighting terrorism and transnational crimes.”

Mr. Bambang said apart from tackling terrorism, the Indonesian government is committed to conflict resolution in Ambon, Aceh, Kalimantan and Papua and preserving law and order in troubled areas.

ENDS//
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Issued by:

GERALDINE GOH
Senior Officer
Public Information
ASEAN SECRETARIAT

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