Bush administration pledges support to Jakarta: Envoy

Bush administration pledges support to Jakarta: Envoy

JAKARTA (JP): The administration of new U.S. President George
W. Bush pledged to continue supporting Indonesia's
democratization process, Washington's envoy to Jakarta said here
on Wednesday.

"The new administration will of course continue to support the
development of strong democracy, strong democratic institutions
and strong market economy in Indonesia," U.S. Ambassador to
Indonesia Robert Gelbard told reporters after meeting with
President Abdurrahman Wahid at Merdeka Palace.

He said Wednesday's meeting was "to present President Wahid a
farewell letter from (former) president Clinton".

"Former president Clinton had a particularly close
relationship with President Wahid and he cares very much about
Indonesia's feelings," said Gelbard.

Abdurrahman had met with Clinton twice since his election as
Indonesian president in October 1999.

Despite Gelbard's comment that his meeting with Abdurrahman on
Wednesday was "my last courtesy call for today", it was not clear
whether he would also be replaced.

There has been speculation that Gelbard might soon be replaced
once the new administration takes office in Washington.

Republican Bush, the son of former president George Bush, took
the oath last Saturday as the 43rd U.S. president.

Previously a narcotics officer and special envoy to the
Balkans, Gelbard has had a long list of disputes with Indonesian
officials ever since he was appointed ambassador here in October
1999. Some consider him arrogant and have suggested that the
government expel him.

Top Cabinet officials and senior legislators have mounted a
relentless public attack on Gelbard. Many have publicly accused
of him of meddling in the country's domestic affairs.(byg)