New envoy not likely for a while

By Meidyatama Suryadiningrat

UNGASAN, Bali (JP): Indonesia's President Soeharto and Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating concluded their meeting here yesterday with a mutual understanding that it will be some time before a new candidate is chosen to fill Indonesia's ambassadorial post in Australia.

"It'll be awhile but that's no problem, relations are running well, they've got a charge there and it's working fine," Keating said after the meeting, adding that Soeharto told him Indonesia needs time to study its candidates.

"He said 'we'd (Australia and Indonesia) better get it right this time'" Keating said citing the President.

The two leaders held a two-hour discussion at the plush Bali Cliff Resort yesterday.

When he arrived at the scenic site of the talks, held in one of the cliff-side bungalows, Keating was met by Soeharto, Foreign Minister Ali Alatas, Minister/State Secretary Moerdiono and the President's special representatives for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, Bintoro Tjokroamidjojo.

Originally scheduled for 90 minutes, much of the two-hour tete-a-tete focused on bilateral relations, particularly the issue of the ambassadorial post, which Keating said was raised by Soeharto himself.

Jakarta withdrew Lt. Gen. (ret.) H.B.L. Mantiri's nomination as ambassador in Canberra in July after the Australian public demanded an apology for remarks Mantiri made about actions taken against demonstrators in Dili in 1991, when several dozen protesters were killed in a clash with security forces.

Moerdiono, who later briefed Indonesian journalists, also remained vague on when Jakarta would name a new nominee.

"The President explained to Prime Minister Keating that in not too long a time he will make a decision on who will be chosen as ambassador to Australia," Moerdiono said diplomatically.

He explained that suitable preparation was needed so the nomination would not be burdened by complications.

He also indicated that Keating would likely welcome Jakarta's choice. "Prime Minister Keating said that whoever is appointed by the President, he would accept," Moerdiono said.

Keating said that Soeharto stressed the need for an ambassador who can work for both sides.

"He said 'if we come to a conclusion that someone doesn't work for both sides we'd withdraw him and appoint somebody else, that's what I've done," Keating said quoting Soeharto.

Both Keating and Moerdiono underlined that the Mantiri affair did not weaken the already solid relationship between the two countries.

"My impression is that the problems that occurred in the past left no scars on the two leaders," Moerdiono said while noting the highly amicable atmosphere of the talks. "The two leaders were seen chuckling away several times," he remarked.

Keating likened current diplomatic ties to a web whereby other elements would keep it strong should one part be broken or need repair.

When asked why the Mantiri affair exploded, Keating replied, "these things just happen".

"I think the President and the government of Indonesia intended that (by nominating) Gen. Mantiri they would pay Australia a compliment by appointing a senior person," the prime minister assessed.

Apart from the question of the ambassadorial post, Moerdiono said other connected issues such as the flag burning and East Timorese boat people in Australia were not discussed.

APEC

Other issues brought up in the meeting included the lingering question of East Timor and recent events in Irian Jaya.

"When I raised these issues I raised them appropriately," Keating said, mentioning only the need to afford people their respect and full rights.

However, Keating noted that Indonesia's tremendous economic and social development have always been overshadowed by unrest in East Timor.

About the upcoming APEC leaders meeting in Osaka, Moerdiono said that both leaders noted the need for it to be a success and continuation of last year's meeting in Bogor, West Java.

He added that they both agree that comprehensive trade liberalization must be carried out thoroughly.

Keating said he had met several APEC leaders to ensure that the meeting would be a success and expects that Soeharto will do the same.

Asked if he would come again next year for a similar meeting with Soeharto, Keating replied "probably" as he returned to his hotel.

Keating, who arrived here Saturday night, is scheduled to return to Australia this morning. (mds)

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