On refugee crisis

On refugee crisis

Reference is made to Robin Goodfellow's article in The Jakarta
Post on Sept 4, 2001 titled Howard fails to consult Indonesia on
refugee crisis. While I disagree with many of the comments made
by Mr. Goodfellow, (a supposed "cross-cultural specialist") I
feel he gives a great disservice to Indonesia in stating that,
"It is in Indonesia's interests to expedite the departure of
refugees from their shores, to turn a 'blind eye' to the
lucrative people-smuggling rackets and sit back and watch the
show". This is surely not the attitude of a country endeavoring
to get back on its feet, to embrace the international community
and look for international support.

People-smuggling is a problem for Indonesia as well as
Australia but as Indonesia's Minister of Foreign Affairs Hassan
Wirayuda stated on the same date as Mr. Goodfellow's article,
"Australian Foreign Minister Mr. Downer & Immigration Minister
Mr. Ruddock would make a visit to Jakarta on Friday". The
countries I am sure have been and are working together on the
issue. Both have vast coastlines and want to solve the problem.
At least Prime Minister Howard took a stance, made a necessary
quick decision, it will be for the courts and others to say if he
was correct. I am sure Indonesia would understand this situation
and not be diverted by the current short-term rhetoric on this
long-term problem.

PAUL R MILTON

Jakarta