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)