Niyazov begins his Indonesia visit

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)