Hashimoto's visit

The economic crisis has taught our decision makers a lesson in drafting investment priorities on an appropriate scale. Often it is desirable to avoid dependence on a small number of large-scale industries to provide jobs, instead focusing on industries in which a country holds a comparative advantage. It is hoped that Japan can help us in this matter.

Indonesia needs quick and sizable support to overcome the crisis. The first steps taken should include measures to stabilize the rupiah at around Rp 5,000, the level agreed to be appropriate by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). At this rate Indonesia's exports will once again become competitive and it will be possible for the corporate sector to begin paying back their debts. The main obstacle to initiating these steps is finding a mechanism that can work to Indonesia's advantage.

We are confident that visiting Japanese prime minister Hashimoto can assist with resolving this intellectual challenge because he has a better understanding of the workings of the Indonesian economy than the IMF team. We believe that prime minister Ryutaro Hashimoto's visit will cement the foundations for a blossoming relationship between Indonesia and Japan -- relations that are based on a similarity of values and shared Asian norms.

-- Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta