U.S. Medan office to reopen

MEDAN, North Sumatra: The United States plans to reopen its Consulate General in Medan, North Sumatra, before the end of the year, after being officially closed since 1996.

"We hope the U.S. Consulate will be reopened, and that there will be no changes to the plan," said chief representative Paul S. Berg during celebrations to mark U.S. independence day in Medan on Sunday.

It was expected that the reopening will enhance bilateral ties and cooperation in various sectors between the U.S. and Indonesia, including North Sumatra province.

It is rumored that Berg, who is fluent in Bahasa Indonesia, will be appointed consul general in Medan.

He said he would enhance the ties and cooperation that had been forged with various circles in the province, including in the educational, cultural, social and economic fields. --Antara