PGI asks for RI debts relief

JAKARTA: The Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) urged Paris Club creditor countries on Tuesday to ease the country's debt burden.

"PGI hopes the (Paris Club) meeting would give Indonesia some debt relief or debt rescheduling for 25 to 30 years," PGI chairman Rev. Natan Setiabudi said, referring to the club's five- day meeting in Paris which began on Monday.

With the debt rescheduling, Indonesia would have a greater chance to accelerate its economic recovery, he said.

Natan said he disagrees with short-term debt rescheduling as it is only a quasi solution that would only result in a chronic problem in the future.

He said PGI statement would be sent to the World Church Council, the International Monetary Fund, World Bank and other international financial organizations. -- Antara