Niyazov begins his Indonesia visit

JAKARTA (JP): Turkmenistan President Saparmurat Niyazov arrived at the Halim Perdanakusuma airport yesterday to start his four-day tour of the country, signaling his intentions to learn from the success of Indonesia's economic development.

President Soeharto, during a brief meeting with his guest at the Merdeka Palace, warned Niyazov not to be too impressed with what he sees.

After complimenting Soeharto with his leadership, Niyazov was told by his host that despite the country's rapid progress, it was still far below the people's expectations, according to Minister/State Secretary Moerdiono.

Soeharto said Indonesia still faces many problems and obstacles in its development. "He offered Indonesia's experience, saying that Turkmenistan could learn not only from Indonesia's successes but also from its failures," Moerdiono told reporters.

The two leaders are slated to have formal talks today.

There will also be a signing of a technical and economic cooperation agreement between the two countries.

Niyazov came with a 45-member group including ten deputies of ministerial councils -- Oil and Gas Industry Advisor/Minister Suyunov Nazar Toiliyevich, Foreign Minister Atayev Khalykberdy, Turkmenian Ambassador for Russia Nurklychev Niyazklych, Agricultural and Food Minister Meredov Payazgeldy, Trade Minister Agakhanov Khalnazar Amannazarovich, Consumer Goods Minister Kulyev Chary Taganovich and several economic institution leaders.

Last night, Niyazov met with Hasyim Djojohadikusumo, the enterprising President of PT Semen Cibinong who has managed to penetrate the former Soviet republic in Central Asia.

Today he is also scheduled to address the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the Grand Hyatt Hotel.

During his stay in Indonesia, he will visit Purwakarta, West Java, and also to Bali tomorrow night where he will stay until Saturday. (pwn)