Ukrainian leader starts Southeast Asian tour

Ukrainian leader starts Southeast Asian tour

KIEV (Reuter): Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma left on a week-long tour of Indonesia and Vietnam yesterday to boost political and trade relations with two of Asia's fast-growing economies.

In Jakarta, he will sign a partnership treaty with Indonesian President Soeharto. His program in Vietnam includes signature with Vietnamese President Le Duc Anh of an agreement to avoid double-taxation.

Last year, Ukraine's trade stood at a paltry at $15 million with Vietnam, mostly imports by Kiev of rubber. Vietnam has expressed interest in spare parts for military equipment dating from the Soviet era.

The figure of $65 million with Indonesia is little better. Ukrainian defense sources say they also view Jakarta as a suitable market for military hardware.

The trip is seen as part of Ukraine's policy of balancing relations between former Soviet allies, like Vietnam, and non- traditional partners such as non-aligned Indonesia.