RI ready to accept Dutch assistance

JAKARTA (JP): Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Finance and Industry Kwik Kian Gie said on Thursday that Indonesia was ready to accept aid from the Netherlands through the Consultative Group on Indonesia (CGI), the country's major donors grouping.

"Yes, it's true. It (the Netherlands) is now back as a member of CGI," Kwik said when asked whether Indonesia agreed to accept Dutch funds.

Kwik spoke following a meeting between Dutch Development Cooperation Minister Eveline Herfkens and Vice President Megawati Soekarnoputri.

Megawati (right) welcomed Herfkens to her residence in South Jakarta.

Former president Soeharto ruled out the continuation of financial assistance from the country's former colonial ruler in 1992 after accusing then Dutch development cooperation minister Jan Pronk of meddling in Indonesia's domestic affairs.

Kwik said recently that Indonesia wished to receive a lower amount of CGI aid next year in a bid to lessen the country's dependence on foreign loans.

CGI pledged US$5.9 billion in aid during its annual meeting in June this year.

Herfkens said The Hague was ready to resume aid to Indonesia immediately.