Bush to hold talks with Megawati

JAKARTA: United States President George W. Bush has confirmed his arrival in Bali on Oct. 22 for a meeting with President Megawati Soekarnoputri.

The Indonesian visit will form part of President Bush's Asia- Pacific trip, which will also take him to Japan, the Philippines, Singapore and Australia, starting from Oct. 17.

Quoting the White House, the Indonesian foreign ministry said in a media release on Friday President Bush would fly to Bali after attending the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Bangkok on Oct. 20 through Oct. 21.

"The Indonesian government welcomes the planned visit of President George W. Bush, which will enhance ties between the two countries," the release said.

Various bilateral, regional and global issues will be discussed during the Bali meeting between the two leaders.

Bush will be making the quick visit to Indonesia en route to Australia.

Megawati was among the first world leaders to visit the U.S. following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack. -- JP