Settle border problems amicably

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Governor Jacob Pattipi called yesterday for amicable solutions to disputes over border areas with Papua New Guinea.

Opening the Border Liaison Meeting in Jayapura, he said rows between the two countries over the border should be more easily solved because of existing good relations.

To maintain the positive condition, he said, the two countries should respect each other's sovereignty. Incidents and conflicts happen sometimes, he said, but they should not disturb relations.

Antara reported him saying that separatist movements are still operating near the border, but they are mostly isolated and do not get support from local people.

The two-day Border Liaison Meeting is being attended by 21 delegates. The Indonesian delegation is led by Irian Jaya Vice Governor Basyir Bachtiar, while the Papuans are led by Christopher Wariambu. (31)