PPP condemns Russian aggression

PPP condemns Russian aggression

JAKARTA (JP): The Moslem-based United Development Party (PPP)
has strongly condemned Russia for its "uncivilized and brutal"
acts against the people in the predominantly-Moslem region of
Chechnya.

PPP, Indonesia's second largest political party, in a
statement urged the United Nations and the Organization of
Islamic Conference (OIC) to take action to stop the Russian
aggression to break the territory's bid for independence.

OIC must rise and show its integrity and respect as a force
that shields oppressed people, particularly Moslems, according to
the statement quoted by the Antara news agency.

The raid on Chechnya has unveiled the "true character" of
Russia which has been promoting itself as a modern and civilized
nation, and as a champion of democracy and human rights, it said.

PPP also appealed to the people of Indonesia, particularly the
Moslem community, to show their solidarity with the people of
Chechen.

The statement followed a series of protests by Moslem youths
in front of the Russian embassy in Jakarta early this week.

Several Indonesian Moslem leaders have also condemned the
Russian bombardment on the territory.

In contrast, the government was more cautious in treating the
issue, with Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas underlining
that while Indonesia is concerned at the increasing violence, the
Chechnya issue is essentially the domestic affair of Russia.
(emb)