Thailand concerned at tension in Indonesia
Thailand concerned at tension in Indonesia
BANGKOK (Agencies): Thailand said on Thursday it was deeply
concerned about political tension in Indonesia and hoped for a
quick resolution to preserve regional stability.
Foreign ministry spokesman Norachit Sinhaseni said in a
statement that Thailand was worried that Indonesia's troubles
could destabilize the rest of the Association of Southeast Asian
Nations (ASEAN).
"Thailand is deeply concerned with the tense political
situation in Indonesia, which could lead to political violence
and instability that will inevitably affect the ASEAN region,"
the statement said.
Indonesian legislators began moves on Wednesday to call for a
special session of the People's Consultative Assembly to demand
President Abdurrahman Wahid account for his administration's
performance.
Thousands of his supporters have gathered in Jakarta and there
have also been violent clashes involving his followers in his
political heartland, East Java.
Concern is growing that the political crisis will fuel a
worsening spiral of violence.
The ministry statement said: "Thailand supports Indonesia's
efforts in finding a resolution of the political strife in
accordance with the constitutional process."
It is rare for ASEAN nations to comment on the political
affairs of their neighbors -- the group has a policy of non-
interference in the internal affairs of other members.
ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia,
Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
"Indonesia is an important member of ASEAN and has always been
instrumental in her contribution in maintaining peace and
stability in this region," the Thai statement said.
"As a member of ASEAN, Thailand wishes to see a quick return
to political normalcy which will be essential for long-term
stability. The success of the democratization process in
Indonesia and progress in economic reforms will contribute to the
advancement of the region."
Meanwhile in Washington, the United States on Wednesday again
urged Indonesia to solve its political crisis peacefully, warning
that the coming proceedings represented a crucial test for
Jakarta's young democracy.
State Department spokesman Philip Reeker told reporters that
"the United States hopes to see Indonesia achieve a timely
resolution of the political crisis, ideally in a way that
promotes reconciliation and effective governance in Indonesia."
In a statement late on Tuesday, the State Department warned
that Indonesia was facing a "crucial test" of its democracy.
"It is difficult to exaggerate the importance for Indonesia's
future of avoiding violence or incitements to violence. We call
upon its leaders to exercise statesmanship and restraint," the
statement said.