RI and Jordan urge Israel to talk peace

JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's President Soeharto and Jordan's King Hussein, in bilateral talks in Amman yesterday, expressed their concern at the stalled Middle East talks resulting from Israel's uncompromising stand.

Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs told journalists yesterday that the two leaders in their talks at Arraghan Palace felt the need to urge Israel to continue peace talks, and follow up on previous agreements such as Israel's earlier promise to withdraw its troops from Hebron.

President Soeharto arrived in Jordan on Monday for a four-day state visit. Apart from Alatas he is accompanied by Minister/State Secretary Moerdiono. Also along for the trip are Soeharto's two daughters Siti Hardiyanti Rukmana and Siti Hediati Harijadi Prabowo.

As reported by Antara from Amman, the two leaders also discussed the activities of the Organization of Islamic Conference of which they are both members.

The two leaders both saw the importance of the organization delving into non-political issues. They noted that cooperation in the economic field would bring about the betterment and prosperity of the people.

"OIC members must also work together to forging unity to erase the negative image of Islam portrayed in the West," Alatas said recounting the leaders' discussions.

He said Western states still often identify Islamic countries with terrorism and violence.

Alatas said that King Hussein also conveyed his country's desire to attend the Asia-Europe meeting of heads of state, at least as an observer.

After yesterday's talks Soeharto and King Hussein witnessed the signing of three economic cooperation agreements: on investment enhancement, avoidance of double taxation and shipping. It was signed by Alatas and Jordanian Minister of Industry and Trade Abdullah Enfour.

Soeharto is scheduled to continue on to the second leg of his trip tomorrow to Rome where he will address the World Food Summit. (mds)