RI likely to ratify atomic weapon act

JAKARTA (JP): The Southeast Asian Nuclear Weapons Free Zone treaty could come into effect next month if Indonesia becomes the seventh country to ratify it, thus fulfilling the minimum quota for its implementation.

In a meeting with members of House Commission I for foreign affairs, defense and information yesterday, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Alatas underlined the importance of a speedy endorsement of the treaty.

"Indonesia is a leader in the region so it shouldn't trail in helping to establish a nuclear free zone in southeast Asia," Alatas said.

The leaders of ten southeast Asian countries gathered in Bangkok in December 1995 to sign a nuclear weapons free zone treaty.

So far, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar and Vietnam have ratified the treaty.

Three other signatories -- Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand -- have yet to do so. The treaty requires the ratification of seven signatories before it comes into effect.

Alatas argued that Indonesia should play a leading role and join the original seven signatories.

Alatas' call received strong support from members of the House. Representatives from all four factions gave the treaty resounding support and pledged speedy but thorough deliberation of it.

The House is scheduled to hold a plenary sessions to pass the treaty on March 12.

While members have proposed some minor technical recommendations to be incorporated into the treaty, no severe impediments are likely to delay the approval of the final bill.

Zumarnis Zein of the Armed Forces faction described the creation of a nuclear weapons free zone as one of the fundamental national interests. In addition, the treaty was necessary to ensure continued regional stability.

"As a developing country ... Indonesia needs a stable and peaceful environment both at home and regionally," he said.

Krissantono of the Golkar faction said the establishment of a nuclear weapons free zone was an important step toward the establishment of closer regional cooperation.

"By ratifying the treaty, we are providing a strong foundation for cooperation in a nuclear free southeast Asia," he said.

Apart from hailing the treaty, Krissantono also raised concerns over the fact that none of the nuclear weapon countries -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States -- have signed on to the protocol to the treaty.

"Besides the ten southeast Asian countries ratifying the treaty, there needs to be a commitment from the nuclear states to respect it," he remarked.

The United States has raised objections over several points in the treaty. Officials from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations are currently working with their U.S. counterparts to make minor amendments to make the treaty acceptable to the nuclear powers. (mds)