Kazakhstan's foreign minister begins two day visit

JAKARTA (JP): Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev of Kazakhstan arrived at Halim Perdanakusuma airport last night to begin a two- day visit to Indonesia.

Saudabayev is scheduled to meet with Minister of Trade Satrio Budiardjo Joedono and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas today.

During his brief stay, the minister will also hold meetings with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) and PT Prima Comexindo to promote bilateral trade between the countries.

Kadin plans to embark on a tour of several former Soviet republics later this month while Prima Comexindo, owned by Hasyim Djojohadikusumo, is experienced in conducting trade with the former Soviet Union.

With a population of some 17 million people, the Republic of Kazakhstan became an independent state on Dec. 16, 1991, a few days before the former Soviet Union dissolved.

Though neither have representatives in their respective capitals, Indonesia and Kazakhstan maintain formal diplomatic relations.(mds)