YouSaid · the spoken record

Wibisono

lines on the record: 434
first: 1994-12-16
most recent: 2001-01-26
sittings or episodes: 49
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“A further manifestation of Indonesia's serious commitment to building a mutually productive and beneficial relationship with East Timor at all levels is reflected in the proposal of President Abdurrahman Wahid to form a new regional grouping, called the West Pacific Forum, in which the nascent state of East Timor will find itself amid friendly countries in the region, thereby assisting it in consolidating the process of nation-building and development. In conclusion, in the light of the foregoing, it is Indonesia's sincere hope that the extension of the mandate of UNTAET will focus on the future and meet the challenges in a positive, balanced and comprehensive manner, as well as fulfil the aspirations of all the East Timorese people during the final phase leading to independence.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“Another suspect, Jakobus Bere, alleged to have killed Private Leonard Manning, surrendered himself to the Indonesian armed forces authorities at the border in Atambua on 9 January 2000 and is presently in police custody for further questioning. During this investigative phase, the suspect will be accorded due process of law. In looking towards the future, Indonesia will endeavour to ensure that East Timor's geographical location is reflected in the workings of the Association of South-East Asian Nations.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“As a manifestation of my Government's commitment to bring the perpetrators of criminal acts to justice, it should be noted that the judicial process began with several trials of the accused parties. On 2, 8 and 15 January 2001, Eurico Guterres went on trial for his role in inciting his followers to retake possession of arms already surrendered to the authorities in September 2000 and was thus charged with illegal possession of weapons. Meanwhile, the six suspects in the killings of the three UNHCR staff in Atambua were brought to trial in the north Jakarta district court. The first hearings took place on 11 and 23 January 2000, and the judicial process is expected to continue in the coming weeks.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“It is therefore hoped that the ongoing consultations between Indonesia and the United Nations Development Programme Resident Representative, as the security coordinator of United Nations personnel in the area, on the modalities for conducting a security assessment, in line with the procedure established by the Office of the United Nations Security Coordinator, will result in the rerating of the phase five category. During a visit to Geneva, Vice-President Megawati Soekarnoputri and Foreign Minister Alwi Shihab met the new High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Ruud Lubbers. Minister Shihab reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to ensuring security in the refugee camps in West Timor.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“Ramos-Horta, the Foreign Minister of East Timor's transitional government, as the measures have resulted in a significant decrease in criminal activities and acts of violence by the so-called militias since September 2000. On the question of the registration of refugees, two rounds of meetings between Indonesia and international aid agencies were held in Jakarta to discuss the necessary modalities for the resumption of the process; that resumption is expected to begin in March 2001. The tragic incident of 6 September 2000 has, however, resulted in the area being placed under the security phase five category, prohibiting international agencies from conducting operations. Undeniably, the present situation of the refugees demands an urgent response so as to alleviate their plight.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“In my Government's view, these are the objectives that should be pursued by UNTAET as the extension of its mandate is being considered, in the context of the principle of shared responsibility, as called for by the Millennium Summit Declaration, as we begin the twenty-first century. Furthermore, Indonesia is continuing its endeavours to disarm the militias, through both persuasive and repressive measures, resulting in the confiscation of hundreds of standard and home-made weapons, including ammunition and grenades. The Indonesian security apparatus is now in control of the situation in and around the camps and along the border with East Timor. These endeavours have been lauded by Mr.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“It relies on the knowledge and capacities of the refugees themselves, and on their determination to resume a more productive life." The East Timorese refugees need to be reassured, not only as concerns economic development in an independent East Timor, which is necessary for pursuing a productive life, but also as concerns the kind of development that will allow them to realize their human potential, retain their self respect, enjoy physical security, meet their material needs, participate in decisions which affect their lives and, above all, be governed fairly, under the rule of law.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“In the conclusion of its publication entitled The State of the World's Refugees - In Search of Solutions, the Office ofthe United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees states that "The search for solutions does not depend on governments, international organizations and NGOs alone.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“Therefore, independent reports stating that abuses, violence, intimidation and even killings were perpetrated against pro-integration returnees, as well as minorities, are not conducive to their return. As a step towards furthering their repatriation, Indonesia conducted a pilot project of an ad hoc, spontaneous nature with former reservists of the Indonesian armed forces (MILSAS) on 22 November 2000, with the assistance of UNTAET and the International Organization for Migration. In this context, it is pertinent to note that since September 2000, the Indonesian Task Force for Refugees in East Nusa Tenggara has facilitated 4,000 spontaneous returns, conducted in close cooperation with UNTAET and aid agencies at the border. It is undeniable that refugee problems are multifaceted and have many dimensions.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“The most recent of these talks were those held in Denpasar, Bali, on 18-19 December 2000, with the assistance of Uppsala University of Sweden. The fact that the leaders of the two groups participated in such an event was indeed a milestone and could pave the way for similar undertakings in the near future. The repatriation of refugees and the early resolution of this issue is another aspect that needs to be urgently addressed, as it is in the interest of both Indonesia and East Timor, particularly when viewed from the perspective of ensuring stability on the island of Timor. To that end, it is essential that an environment of calm and tranquillity, including job security and employment prospects, be advanced in East Timor.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“These views, in our opinion, reflect the aspirations of the East Timorese people and thus must be taken into account and considered constructively. My Government has on several occasions reiterated its strong belief that the key component to resolving the myriad of existing issues is the need to promote true and genuine reconciliation among all East Timorese of all political persuasions - particularly in View of the fact that, in the past, political differences among them have usually led to violence. Thus, reconciliation has attained greater importance and must be pursued in all earnest if the potential of civil strife befalling East Timor and its people is to be avoided. For its part, Indonesia has facilitated and will continue to facilitate talks leading to reconciliation among the East Timorese.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“Therefore, we are fully committed to resolving all outstanding issues, including the question of East Timorese refugees. To that end, Indonesia has consistently cooperated, as it will continue to strive to do, with UNTAET and its administrators, as well as with the leaders of East Timor. Undoubtedly, the resolution of these issues would facilitate the attainment of my Government's objective. Its attainment, however, depends not only on the prevailing situation in East Nusa Tenggara, but also on the situation in East Timor. While acknowledging the results achieved by UNTAET thus far, we cannot ignore the fact that some independent observers, including Xanana Gusmao, in his new year's message, have been critical of UNTAET.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“Today the Council is considering an issue of great importance and profound interest to the international community 4 namely, the issue of bringing a territory into nationhood. If it is successful in this undertaking, the world will, in the not-too-distant future, witness East Timor becoming the first nation to be born in this new millennium. In the meantime, our collective support is deemed necessary, as it involves the complex and difficult tasks of nation-building, governance and development. As part of the international community of nations situated in close geographical proximity to, and sharing a common border with, East Timor, I should like to reiterate my Government's firm commitment to building a mutually beneficial and harmonious relationship with a future independent, democratic and stable East Timor.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“I wish first to join other speakers in expressing my delegation's deep condolences and sympathy to two friendly countries, India and Pakistan, for the tragic loss of life as a result of the earthquake that struck the subcontinent yesterday. I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate Singapore, and the other new members - namely, Colombia, Ireland, Mauritius and Norway - on joining the Council. We are convinced that the new members will contribute new ideas and perspectives to the work of the Council. I should also like to express my delegation's sincere congratulations to you, Sir, on assuming the presidency of the Council for this month of January. We are confident that under your able stewardship the work of the Council will be brought to a successful conclusion.”
2001-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4265Resumption1 (2001) · source
“It is therefore our fervent hope that the ongoing talks in Paris and later in Cairo will result in ending the conflict and lead to the resumption of peace talks. In order for this millennium to make a truly auspicious beginning, we should make every effort for the Palestinian people to regain their sovereign national rights in an independent homeland of their own. Only then can it be said that a just and comprehensive peace has been attained in the Middle East.”
2000-10-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4204Resumption2 (2000) · source
“Far more is needed than mere rhetoric of words without follow-up concrete action to implement peace agreements already entered into, the lack of which can have dire consequences for security in the occupied territories, the region and beyond. At this critical juncture, as the spectre of violence looms, there can be no other alternative but for Israel to assume its solemn obligations and pursue in all earnest the peace negotiations. The violent incidents that we have borne witness to is reminiscent of past strife, and it would serve the international community well to come to the realization that the patience of a people will endure only for so long. This is a time to strike out for real and bold peace with the valiant Palestinians.”
2000-10-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4204Resumption2 (2000) · source
“It therefore behoves Israel to refrain in the future from using force, which would only further complicate an already volatile situation on the ground. Sombre developments over the past few days show us how fragile peace can be and how essential it is to achieve a comprehensive peace, which should be based on the implementation of Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973) and on the principle of land for peace. Provocative acts and the perpetration of brute force against a nation and its people make it increasingly difficult to convince them that Israel is truly committed to take the path towards peace.”
2000-10-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4204Resumption2 (2000) · source
“The fact that the Council has dealt with this conflict for so long makes it incumbent upon it to shoulder its responsibilities with regard to adopting a draft resolution, and it should proceed forthwith to implement the provisions of the resolution. For failure on the part of the Council to act in light of the increasing number of casualties would cast doubt on its credibility, and indeed moral stature, as a body that can take action, particularly when it has condemned instances of a lesser magnitude. The use of military might can never detract from the historical and indisputable fact that Al-Haram Al- Sharif is an integral part of the occupied Palestinian territory, as reiterated in numerous General Assembly and Security Council resolutions.”
2000-10-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4204Resumption2 (2000) · source
“We were even more appalled that, despite the efforts of the Palestinian leaders to enter into a ceasefire agreement, the violence continued unabated as the situation worsened. It is therefore incumbent upon the occupying Power to exercise restraint and abide by its duties and obligations under the Fourth Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War. Every support should be extended to ensure the implementation of those measures. The compelling question here is the protection of civilians under occupation. Only through the realization of such protection can the situation return to some form of normalcy while they await the end of foreign occupation.”
2000-10-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4204Resumption2 (2000) · source
“No longer can the international community sit idly by while a defenceless people are mercilessly attacked by military forces. Ever since the peace process began in 1991, the Palestinian people have been subjected to procrastination, unkept promises and even outright intransigence. The stalled peace process had already heightened tension in the territories, as frustration and bitterness began to replace hope and optimism, particularly over the status of Al-Quds Al-Sharif. Thus the blatant provocation by Mr. Ariel Sharon in visiting Al-Haram Al-Sharif constituted a deliberate, intentional act to incite violence and thereby cause the loss of innocent life and material devastation. Undeniably, there are some elements in Israel intent on disrupting the peace process as they wilfully disregard the ramifications of their actions.”
2000-10-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4204Resumption2 (2000) · source
“My delegation would like to begin by extending its congratulations to you, Sir, on your assumption of the presidency at a time when the Council has been convened to consider an issue of critical importance to the international community. This emergency meeting has been called to address a rapidly deteriorating situation in the occupied territories, including Al-Quds Al-Sharif. My delegation cannot but express its profound concern at Israel's aggression against unarmed Palestinian civilians, resulting in scores of deaths and injuries. Such brutal tactics justifiably deserve global condemnation, and we therefore call upon Israel to immediately cease the incessant violence and bloodshed. Tragically, it is the women, children and elderly who bear the brunt of excessive, lethal force.”
2000-10-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4204Resumption2 (2000) · source
“In an effort to ensure that the Council is kept apprised of ongoing developments, the Special Envoy of Indonesia was dispatched to brief its member States on the comprehensive plan of action to disarm the militias and on the other important measures that it had already undertaken. As a follow-up, the Foreign Minister of Indonesia, Mr. Alwi Shihab, will return to New York on 12 October 2000 to brief the Security Council and the Secretary-General on the progress made by the Indonesian Government in implementing Security Council resolution 1319 (2000). These endeavours by my Government reflect its sincerity and commitment to ensure an open channel of communication and information between Indonesia and the United Nations on the unfolding situation.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“As East Timor moves further along the path to independence, it is of the utmost importance that the pro-integration group, which constitutes 21.5 per cent of its population, be encouraged to participate in its nation-building endeavour, as it has the same rights and responsibilities as the pro-independence supporters. These efforts should be pursued in earnest, as they offer the only viable path to replacing decades of mistrust and enmity with a prosperous future built on trust and amity. Only then can its people relegate this conflict to the past and look forward to opening a new chapter in their lives, characterized by peace, harmony and stability.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“It is regrettable that little progress has been achieved so far on this track. Thus, while calls for disarmament are justifiably made to the pro-integration side, they should be equally applicable to FALINTIL if a process of genuine reconciliation is to begin. Merely disarming one side would only provide a short interval of peace, as feelings of deep resentment and anger would continue to fester and a lasting peace would prove elusive. My Government has therefore offered a hand of cooperation to UNTAET to facilitate such reconciliation, and it stands ready to work towards that end. In this regard, it is pertinent to note that Indonesia initiated the meeting that took place in Denpasar on 14 September 2000, which was attended by UNTAET, the leaders of CNRT and UNTAS.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“The United Nations, including the Security Council, has an important role to play to extend urgently needed assistance at this critical hour of need. In order to alleviate the plight of the refugees, much more is needed than mere rhetoric and platitudes, which need to be reinforced by concrete plans for action. As always, my Government stands ready to work with the United Nations in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect to resolve the outstanding problems. My Government has consistently pointed out the urgent need to promote the reconciliation of the East Timorese people of all political persuasions, which the French Ambassador and other speakers have mentioned. It is hoped that UNTAET will ensure that there is an effort to promote an all-inclusive reconciliation process.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“Pivotal in this field has been the role of the provincial government, which since 10 September, has initiated phase I of the relief operation, namely, the distribution of 1,040 tons of rice. During phase II, begun on 27 September and continuing until 6 October, 918 tons of rice are to be distributed, with additional cash in the amount of 1,500 rupiahs per person per day for meals. Approximately 130,000 refugees multiplied by 1,500 will amount to 1.95 billion rupiahs. Commencing on 6 October, assistance will be channelled through the affected districts. Hence, Indonesia is not shirking its responsibilities to the East Timorese refugees. But we believe that that this is a shared responsibility.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“The issue of refugees almost always creates a dilemma for the international community, especially with its many and multifaceted problems. The question of East Timorese refugees in no exception. More than one year on, the presence of East Timorese refugees in West Timor is proving to be more of a financial burden with each passing day. Indonesia has done far more than its fair share in extending assistance to them. Urgent steps have been implemented to take over the task of providing humanitarian emergency relief due to the departure of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other relevant humanitarian agencies. On 24 September, the Vice-President personally oversaw the provision of such assistance in Atambua.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“Understandably, the commencement on 27 September of the phase of the forcible confiscation of weapons generated a fair degree of anxiety in Atambua because of wary anticipation or rumours of possible violence and public disorder. It is gratifying to note that such assumptions have been largely unfounded. The awesome display of force by the Indonesian police had its intended deterrent effect on would-be trouble makers and in reassuring the general public of their safety and security. Just as important, the Indonesian police and the TNI have continued to work closely with the local district authority and local community and religious leaders in promoting calm, resulting in the maintenance of general law and order in Atambua.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“Furthermore, commencing on 27 September, the sweeping operation - the second step - was carried out by a joint police and Indonesian armed forces (TNI) team to persuade people to hand over, or to forcibly confiscate, weapons which are still at large. Although these operations are continuing, they are not without risk, not least to the ordinary people, whose safety and security are paramount. Under these circumstances, we should not second-guess those in the field with intimate knowledge of the tasks at hand, pontificate or make endless calls for Indonesia to disarm and disband the militias. Rather, the international community should issue unmistakable words of encouragement to those who are, at this very important moment, doing their level best to carry out these important tasks.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“On the contrary, despite the potentially volatile situation, the police were able to quickly drive the excitable crowd out of the police compound and safeguard the surrendered weapons - those that were briefly retrieved were quickly surrendered to the local military commander - and protect the UNTAET personnel who were in the compound at the time, and provide them with the necessary military escort for their journey back to Monta Ain en route to Dili. Indeed, the commotion following the handover ceremony confirmed the Indonesian Government's forewarning that the disarmament would be fraught with challenges. This was not a unique local phenomenon; it is, in fact, inherent in any effort to disarm individuals or groups bent on retaining their weapons. It is for these reasons that the emphasis was first placed on persuasive matters.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“Any shortcomings in the handover ceremony should not, and cannot, detract from the basic, indisputable fact that a large quantity of weapons were surrendered to the police on that day and that, accordingly, security in the refugees camps and in Atambua generally has been enhanced. Moreover, the comments indicate an acute inability to recognize the political significance of the occasions on which the individuals concerned have opted to pursue their legitimate aspirations through peaceful means by renouncing violence. Indonesia also takes strong exception to any suggestion that the scuffle that broke out following the handover ceremony testifies to the inability of the Indonesian police to maintain order.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“Mindful of the complexity of this process, and to ensure that it was conducted in an orderly, peaceful and thorough manner, the Indonesian Government extended the period from 24 September to 27 September 2000. Since then, an additional 215 weapons, including four units of M-16s and 13 grenades, and 1,900 rounds of ammunition, have been surrendered. In the light of those facts, Indonesia considers certain comments with regard to the handover of weapons on 21 September to be most unfortunate and ill-advised, as they reflect a failure to fully appreciate the prevailing realities of the disarmament process. Every single one of those weapons could have maimed, injured or killed innocent civilians.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“On that date, in a ceremony witnessed by the Vice-President, Megawati Sukarnoputri, and other high-ranking Indonesian officials, as well as by UNTAET officials, militia members surrendered the weapons in their possession. This involved the voluntary handover of 888 home- assembled weapons, 34 standard weapons, four grenades and 1,000 rounds of ammunition. My delegation would like to stress that the process of disarming the militia did not begin just on 23 September 2000, but has been under way since December 1999, resulting in the seizure of 817 firearms, consisting of 214 standard weapons and 603 home-assembled weapons, and 19,926 rounds of ammunition and 66 grenades.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“Almost a month after the occurrence of that tragic incident, our outrage has not abated. My delegation is constrained to point out that in the emotionally charged environment caused by the killing of a militia leader on 5 September 2000, police officials on duty had asked all UNHCR personnel to vacate the office under their protection. Of those 13 personnel, 10 complied with that request and were escorted to safety, while three UNHCR staff members chose to remain and hence could not be saved. On the question of disarming the militias, the Indonesian Government has adopted a two-step approach. The first step laid out a specific time-frame for the militias to surrender their weapons voluntarily: by 24 September 2000.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“These would involve, first, an investigation of the Atambua incident of 6 September 2000 and bringing the perpetrators to justice; secondly, disarming the militias; thirdly, reaching a comprehensive solution of the problem of East Timorese refugees; and finally, promoting reconciliation among the East Timorese. With regard to the investigation of the Atambua incident of 6 September 2000 and to bringing the perpetrators to justice, the Indonesian Government has accorded priority to handling this matter. Investigations by the relevant authorities into the killing of the three members of the staff of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and into the murder of Olivio Mendosa Moruk are continuing. As to the former, a suspect by the name of Sisto Pereira has been arrested and is being questioned.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“In that regard, it should be noted that the letter dated 25 October 1999 from President Wahid to the Secretary-General conveyed the decision of the People's Consultative Assembly on arrangements for the transfer of authority. Despite the sincere and concerted efforts of my Government over the past year, the Atambua incident of 6 September 2000 has regrettably brought to the forefront residual problems, including that regarding the refugees in West Timor, which have become formidable challenges for all parties concerned. In that regard, my delegation would like to reiterate its decision on the need for a comprehensive resolution of the remaining problems relating to this item, which can be achieved only through the adoption of bold measures on four main questions.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“I should like to congratulate you, Sir, on your assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of September. My congratulations go also to your predecessor, the Permanent Representative of Malaysia, on his skilful stewardship of the Council's activities last month. Allow me to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Sergio Vieira de Mello, for his briefing on the situation in East Timor. Ever since the New York agreement of May 1999 and the holding of the popular consultation of 30 August 1999, we have borne witness to a remarkable transformation of the question of East Timor. Indeed, Indonesia's new democratically elected Government led by President Abdurrahman Wahid, immediately after assuming official responsibility, honoured the decision of the East Timorese people.”
2000-09-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4203 (2000) · source
“It is in this regard that a delegation from Jakarta recently visited Dili to discuss with UNTAET the issue of the establishment of a Joint Border Committee consisting of civilian representatives from UNTAET and the Indonesian Government to demarcate the boundary between West Timor and East Timor. It is unfortunate that UNTAET has yet to provide comments on the document addressing this issue, which was submitted to it some time ago. It is therefore imperative that extra efforts from all the concerned parties be made so that the East Timor chapter can finally be brought to a close.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“This is the culmination of protracted investigations and reflects the firm commitment of the Government to bring to justice the perpetrators of violence. All this is being done within the framework of building a new era of amity and friendship that will benefit the two peoples as the foundation of a bilateral relationship between the two countries. Many issues, however, remain to be addressed. These include questions of the border, assets, education for East Timorese, archives, creation of a land corridor linking East Timor with the enclave of Oecussi and cultural artefacts.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“Undoubtedly, reconciliation is therefore of paramount importance. So long as the root causes remain unsolved, the attainment of a true and genuine reconciliation will continue to elude us and thereby hinder the resolution of this complex and challenging task relating to refugees. The Government of Indonesia is intent on fostering close and mutually beneficial relations with East Timor and is determined to make its utmost efforts towards this end, including through the urgently necessary task of promoting true and genuine reconciliation among East Timorese of all political persuasions. Accordingly, the Indonesian Attorney General is making final preparations to name those suspected of involvement in the events following last year's popular consultation.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“Having followed closely the developments that are taking place in East Timor, we consider that the most fundamental issue to be addressed as a matter of priority is the attainment of true and genuine reconciliation between and among the East Timorese, which, unfortunately, has so far been elusive. Lest we forget, it is a historical fact that conflict had already existed between and among the East Timorese even before 1975. That it continues until the present day clearly is not because of Indonesia's design. Violence in the refugee camps not only occurs because of lingering political differences between those who are pro- independence and those who are pro- integration, but it is also committed out of a sense of frustration at living under abnormal circumstances, which has a demoralizing effect.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“There are approximately 130,000 refugees remaining in camps in West Timor. Their sense of frustration is heightened by the fact that the pace and progress of the much-needed assistance has not met their expectations. Understandably, they are profoundly concerned, especially about their physical security, as well as about employment opportunities and job security, food scarcity and lack of other basic necessities; they see a bleak picture of what the future holds for them in East Timor. The success of the repatriation process will therefore depend on many aspects, among them the ability of UNTAET to provide certainty, not only in the economic and social fields, but more importantly in the area of security.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“The closure of the camps and the relocation of refugees, either to temporary transit camps in West Timor or to transit camps in East Timor, will be carried out in a sensitive and humane manner, preceded by an intensive public information campaign among the refugees. As we are all aware, such an undertaking requires significant funding. Bearing in mind that the issue of refugees is a collective responsibility, the international community is also being called upon to assist in this process. We hope that, as testimony of the continued concern and commitment of the international community, the necessary assistance will be forthcoming from donor countries and relevant international organizations. It is understandable that some refugees may have doubts, or even fears, of returning to East Timor due to uncertainties still prevailing.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“We are also mindful of the economic and financial consequences, because the continued existence of the camps in West Timor has imposed a heavy economic and financial burden not only on the central Government but also on the province of East Nusa Tenggara. This burden has a direct bearing on the local population, who are already impoverished. Conversely, the return of refugees to East Timor, many of whom are skilled in farming, small business and administration, would be essential for the future development of East Timor. It must be underlined that the voluntary nature of the decision of each and every individual refugee is sacrosanct throughout the process of registration.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“For this purpose, a comprehensive plan of action is presently being formulated in order to expedite the resolution of the refugee problem. The elements of the plan would include the following: first, the continuation of existing programmes for repatriation to East Timor or resettlement within Indonesian territory; secondly, the closure of refugee camps closest to the border; thirdly, the relocation to temporary transit camps away from the border of those refugees who choose to remain in Indonesia, prior to their permanent resettlement in West Timor or in other parts of Indonesia; and fourthly, the transfer to transit camps in East Timor of those refugees who choose to return to East Timor, before they are processed for travel to their final destinations in East Timor.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“That decision was taken so as not to run the risk that international attention to this issue would wane and that the thousands of refugees still in the camps would continue to languish there. We are of the view that if the problem is addressed comprehensively, acts of violence, killings and tension could be significantly abated, if not eradicated altogether. Essential to this process is the registration of refugees. We acknowledge the role of the United Nations in trying to determine how many people want to remain in Indonesian territory and how many want to return to East Timor. In this respect, the Government of Indonesia is determined to do its utmost to assist and will not allow extremists to get in the way.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“But once such armed groups manage to cross the border, UNTAET, being responsible for security in the territory of East Timor, has a clear, robust and unequivocal mandate to take the necessary action to maintain that security. We would certainly welcome the remark by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General that "those who dare to disrupt the public order in the country will pay a very high price" being translated into concrete action, for that is precisely what is expected of UNTAET. Motivated by a strong desire to resolve the refugee problem, my Government has announced its intention to deal with it in a comprehensive manner within a period of three to six months.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“Under the agreed Memorandum of Understanding between Indonesia and the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET), each side is responsible for providing security on its respective side of the border. In order to avoid the occurrence of incidents in border areas, Indonesia proposed to UNTAET to undertake joint patrols, establish joint border posts and exchange military liaison officers. That proposal was unfortunately rejected by UNTAET. For its part, the Indonesian armed forces always barred armed persons from entering East Timor. It has confirmed that it detained the leader of one militia group, who had been organizing a 200-man force for cross-border strikes.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“But this does not mean that they are supported by the Indonesian armed forces, as such material can be easily acquired on the black market. Let me recall the reports that armed groups were active in central and western East Timor and that militias were burning houses, reports which later proved to be groundless. Indonesia fully shares the concerns expressed in this Chamber; as on previous occasions, we would like to reiterate that we are determined to take the necessary steps to ensure security and to prevent such incidents from recurring. Indeed, one such step was taken on 12 November 1999, when the so-called militia groups were formally disbanded. But we must not forget that the refugee problem is a complex, complicated and a multi-dimensional one.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source
“Time and again, irresponsible quarters have described these acts of violence as being sanctioned by Indonesia. One has claimed, for example, that "clashes between the pro-Jakarta groups and peacekeepers have become more frequent recently, and there is growing speculation that sections of the Indonesian armed forces have been arming and training the gangs". It has also been suggested that "attacks by pro- Indonesia militias operate with impunity". While no one is denying that certain incidents have indeed occurred, we must nevertheless keep in perspective all the rumours that abound. Allegations have been made that the militias are now better equipped and better armed, and that they are wearing camouflage uniforms.”
2000-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.4191 (2000) · source