Indonesia sets its eyes on Mideast peace process

Ivy Susanti, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has made the Middle East peace process -- including an independent Palestine -- one of its foreign policy cornerstones.

In a meeting at the State Palace here on Monday with 119 diplomats representing Indonesia in 85 countries, Susilo made an appeal to improve the diplomatic efforts for that purpose.

"I asked the diplomats to be more proactive, and to keep searching for an opportunity to contribute to the Middle East peace process, particularly in the case of Palestine.

"I know it is not easy to find an entry point to get involved in the peace process, and the problem is also very complicated. But I am sure there is always a chance as long as we are proactive in examining this matter."

He added that building and maintaining peace in the world is part of Indonesia's Constitution. In this light, Indonesia should be committed to helping resolve the conflict between Israel and Palestine and to build a free and independent Palestinian state.

"We are sure that peace in the (Middle East) region can be achieved if the Palestinian's right to freedom are fulfilled," he was quoted by Antara as saying.

Foreign Affairs Minister Hassan Wirayuda acknowledged that it took more time and effort to jump into the ongoing Middle East peace process as there were already four major groups -- the United States, European Union, Russia and the United Nations -- sponsoring the "road map" peace plan.

"We can not immediately claim ourselves as a new player," Hassan told reporters after accompanying his officials at the meeting with Susilo.

He said that one way to contribute to the peace process was by supporting democracy -- a value that is also shared by the other four -- in Palestine. He said Indonesia could begin by sharing its experience in staging a successful election in 2004.

The Palestinians are scheduled to hold an election next year to elect a new President to replace Yasser Arafat, who died on Nov. 11.

"Perhaps, what is badly needed is the empowerment of the Palestinians -- increasing their capacity in staging that event," Hassan said.

Susilo also asked the diplomats to create a positive image of Indonesia, which has become famous for its corruption.

"Let us build the respect in the domestic and international domain. Don't let ourselves be sneered at and looked down on by others because of reports of the massive amount of corruption in Indonesia," he said.

He also emphasized that the government had started to clean up from within. "I will take stern measure against corruptors," he said.

Susilo also urged the diplomats to increase the service to, and protection of, Indonesian migrant workers. "We have to protect and serve each of our own citizens overseas. I know it's difficult sometimes, because not all the traveling citizens report their presences to our foreign offices," he added.

The diplomats, ranging from ambassadors, consulates general, counselors and charges d'affaire, have been summoned back to Jakarta for the five-day discussion, ending Friday at the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

The discussion is focusing on four main themes -- foreign policy, political, legal and security affairs, investment, trade and foreign debt and building a unified Indonesia (called the Indonesia Inc. project). They also will hear from ministers, military and police chiefs, religious leaders and activists from various non-governmental organizations.

Palestinian affairs is one of the special issues, in addition to the East Asia Community and issues relating to migrant workers that will be discussed over the course of the week.

"It is expected that our foreign service officials will get a comprehensive understanding about the programs of the United Indonesia Cabinet, and be able to translate those programs into a versatile diplomatic mission," Marty Natalegawa, the ministry's spokesman, said on the sidelines of the meeting on Monday.