Foreign intervention

Foreign intervention

From Rakyat Merdeka

A statement by the New Zealand foreign minister proposing foreign army intervention in East Timor, outside the United Nations, because of the increased tension due to the actions of the proautonomy militia, is understandable as long as it is a reminder to the Indonesian government to be on the alert and more watchful in the context of safeguarding the tripartite agreement (New York, May 5, 1999). However, a few remarks are necessary:

First, we must refer to Article 3 of the tripartite agreement, reading, "The Indonesian government shall be responsible to safeguard peace and safety in East Timor so that the referendum will take place in a just and peaceful manner." The Indonesian government is of the opinion that the fighting between the two sides are on a scale that can still be neutralized by the security forces.

We all admit that wherever conflicts occur involving big masses, there will be victims. The problem now is how each side can play a proportionate role. If we are consistent, the safety in East Timor is the responsibility of the Indonesian government. Therefore, it is the Indonesian government that is entitled to decide when it will ask for help.

Second, the New Zealand foreign minister's statement apparently has political nuances. It tends to be provocative, with the objective to speed up the presence of foreign armed troops in East Timor which will in time fulfill their political mission.

Third, if a high official of a foreign country wants to apply democratic values, he should try not to be provocative. He should create a conducive climate so that the East Timor people who have successfully participated in the referendum enjoy a peaceful situation.

Fourth, history has indicated that the Indonesian Military has shown its own class and reputation as a UN peace force in Vietnam, Cambodia, the Congo, Bosnia, the Middle East, etc.

With the above experience and success, it is clear that it is entirely irrelevant to propose the presence of foreign troops in East Timor.

MARTHEN LUTHER DJARI

Jakarta