On CFR's visit to Papua

I refer to the news item in The Jakarta Post on Nov. 29, 2002, titled Foreigners denied entry to Papua.

Through its Center for Preventive Action, the Council on Foreign Relations of New York (CFR), an independent non- governmental organization, is preparing a report The Indonesia Commission: Peace and Progress in Papua.

Your news story includes assertions that are factually inaccurate. The CFR has been in contact with responsible Indonesian government officials both in the United States and Jakarta. Members of the Commission intend to visit Indonesia as part of its efforts to prepare the Commission report. Though we welcome discussions with all concerned, the private visit will not, however, be made at the invitation of either the Indonesian government or the Papua Presidium.

The Indonesia Commission does not endorse Papuan separatism. It highlights strategies for parties to promote peace and progress in Papua. The Commission's effort is in the interest of all Indonesians including Papuans.

ADMIRAL DENNIS C. BLAIR, (U.S. Navy, retired) Chairman The Indonesia Commission Center for Preventive Action Council on Foreign Relations, New York