Australia defends RI's rights approach

Australia defends RI's rights approach

CANBERRA (AFP): Australian Foreign Minister Gareth Evans yesterday defended his government's approach to Indonesia over human rights in East Timor province.

Yesterday was the anniversary of the former Portuguese colony's integration with Indonesia in 1976.

The United Nations still recognizes Portugal as the legitimate administrator of East Timor, but Australia has recognized Indonesia's sovereignty over the province.

Evans said certain human rights issues on East Timor should be addressed, citing "the omni-presence ... of the military" and "the degree of obvious cultural insensitivity as shown in the events of the last few days."

Last Thursday, hundreds of students protesting religious conflicts, clashed with security forces in East Timor. Police and the Indonesian government have denied reports that three demonstrators died.

More than 300 East Timorese carrying crucifixes protested on Tuesday after two soldiers behaved improperly during a mass in a small town south of the capital Dili on June 28.

However, Evans told a television interviewer that raising expectations about the chances for East Timor's independence did little good because that time had long passed.

"It might give everyone a greater sense of satisfaction were we to stand back and hurl mullock and just generally express indignation in a rowdier fashion, but whether it would contribute to improving the situation on the ground for East Timorese is a very different question," Evans said.

"I think we just have to continue to do our best to encourage the best elements, to discourage the worst and to recognize that there is a real sense in which Indonesia has been a tolerant society.

Evans said he discussed establishing Australian diplomatic representation in East Timor with senior levels of the Indonesian government during a visit two weeks ago.