U.S urges caution on RI

U.S urges caution on RI

WASHINGTON (AFP): Warning that political unrest could strike Indonesia this year, the U.S. State Department on Friday urged U.S. nationals to 'consider carefully' whether to travel there.

"The political and economic situation is unsettled and is likely to remain so leading up to the June 1999 parliamentary elections and the selection of a new president a few months later," the department said in a statement. "Americans citizens should consider carefully whether to travel to Indonesia during this period."

U.S nationals throughout Indonesia "should exercise prudence and common sense, and avoid demonstrations and other situations that could turn violent," the statement said, adding that Americans have not been specifically targeted.

The department said Americans in Indonesia should have their passports and other crucial papers in order in case they must leave quickly.

"Americans traveling in Indonesia should remember that much of the country, including many tourist destinations, can be isolated and difficult to reach by available transportation or communication links," it said.