Indonesia strengthens representation at UN

JAKARTA (JP): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has appointed a senior diplomat to beef up Indonesia's representation at the United Nations in view of Indonesia's ascension to the UN Security Council beginning in January.

Makarim Wibisono, the director of multilateral economic cooperation, yesterday handed over his post to Director General of Economic Relations Wisber Loeis following his appointment to fill the new post in New York.

Makarim will become deputy to Nugroho Wisnumurti, the Indonesian Permanent Representative at the United Nations, specifically for the UN Security Council, the Antara news agency reported.

"My task is very specific, that is to assist Nugroho on issues related to the UN Security Council," Makarim said.

Indonesia was appointed to the powerful security council last month during the UN General Assembly to fill in one of the 10 rotating posts. Four other countries will also be joining the council: Botswana, Germany, Honduras and Italy.

Makarim said during the two year tenure at the council, Indonesia will be faced with many challenges.

"Indonesia's challenge will be to play a constructive role in enhancing the UN efforts to promote international peace," Makarim said. "Other UN members have high expectations of Indonesia in view of its leadership of the Non-Aligned Movement of the past two years and of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum this past year." (emb)