PGI rejects separatism

BOGOR, West Java (JP): The Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) called on the nation on Thursday to enhance solidarity and avoid national disintegration.

In a statement summing up its three-day national conference here, the PGI encouraged the Indonesian's efforts "to gain freedom from all kinds of adversities ... particularly in Aceh, Irian Jaya and East Timor".

"But the strong desire to fight for independence should not be aimed at separation from the nation which is now experiencing difficulties," the PGI said in its statement signed by its chairman Sularso Sopater and secretary-general J.M. Pattiasina.

The communion also appealed to all elements of the nation to refrain from the use of force in dealing with the wave of peaceful movements in the country.

It urged the government to quickly take measures against alleged human rights abusere across the country. "The government should hold dialogs with people who have fallen victim to human rights violations," it said. (amd)