October 15, 1999
EAST TIMOR: INTERFET MISSION SPARKS CONTINUED DEBATE
Although the volume of commentary has subsided significantly, the situation in East Timor continued to attract editorial comment from a number of geographic regions over the past two weeks. Predictably, the Indonesian media had the most to say about events surrounding the fate of the former Portuguese colony. Jakarta writers weighed in with a range of views on such issues as the role of the Indonesian military vs. that of the Australian-led Interfet force, the alleged "brutality" of Interfet and the human rights situation in East Timor. Observers elsewhere discussed ASEAN's role vis-a-vis the peacekeeping mission in East Timor, with writers in Japan, the Philippines and Thailand decrying the group's long-cherished shibboleth of "non-interference" in the affairs of ASEAN member-states. In the region, dailies in Japan and Singapore offered stern words of advice to Indonesia in its handling of East Timor. Tokyo's liberal Asahi, for example, urged Indonesia to cooperate with the multinational force, disarm the pro-Jakarta militias, smooth the way for humanitarian relief to East Timorese refugees and end the Indonesian military's "excessive involvement in politics." Singapore's pro-government Straits Times, emphasizing that the Indonesian armed forces had yet to "come to terms with the reality that the East Timorese have voted overwhelmingly for independence," advised the military to "cut its losses now" in East Timor. Pundits in Japan, New Zealand, Thailand and several European countries expressed support for the Interfet peacekeeping operations, with Hamilton, New Zealand's conservative Waikato Times stressing that the efforts expended "will be worth it if an independent and peaceful East Timor rises from the ashes." Highlights follow:
INDONESIAN VIEWS ON INTERFET, AUSTRALIA'S RESPONSE: A majority of Jakarta dailies lashed out at Australia following last weekend's clash between Interfet forces and Indonesian troops in West Timor that resulted in the death of an Indonesian policeman. Islamic-oriented Republika, ruling Golkar Party's Suara Karya and a few others registered their "strong protest" against Interfet's purported "brutality" and the Australian military's "lack of professionalism and discipline." The incident, these newspapers insisted, revealed Australia's supposed "blueprint for East Timor" and led nationalistic Rakyat Merdeka to conclude that--since the clash occurred partly as a result of inaccurate maps--it was "not impossible that Jakarta could be bombed after an aircraft is 'blown off course.'" Australia's liberal Sydney Morning Herald seized the occasion to underscore that there is "all too often a difference between what Indonesia says and what Indonesia does." Referring to what it called the Indonesian foreign minister's "dissimulation" about what really occurred during the incident, the paper deemed it necessary for the UN to be "fully informed" that Indonesia is "not cooperating" with Interfet in East Timor. Notably, Jakarta's Armed Forces' ABRI downplayed the seriousness of the event, saying that the two sides should "cool down and stop issuing inappropriate statements about one another."
KOH VISIT: Two Jakarta dailies had brief remarks on Assistant Secretary Koh's visit to Jakarta just prior to the border clash. Ruling Golkar Party's Suara Karya surmised that "perhaps Koh's mission was only to support...[Interfet commander] Cosgrove's statement about protecting East Timor only for pro-independence groups."
EDITOR: Kathleen J. Brahney
EDITOR'S NOTE: This survey is based on 50 reports from 16 countries, October 2 - 15. Editorial excerpts are grouped by region; editorials from each country are listed from the most recent date.
EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC
INDONESIA: "As Suspected, Vote Has Not Settled East Timor Issue"
Leading, independent Kompas concluded (10/15): "We are at a sensitive moment regarding East Timor. The East Timor problem did not simply end after the polls, or even with Interfet's presence.... If everyone involved wants a peaceful settlement, the existing circumstance must be well contemplated by all sides, both domestically and overseas."
"MPR And The East Timor Issue"
Pro-government, Islamic-oriented Pelita averred (10/15): "The West has 'grabbed' East Timor from our hands. No efforts on our part will ever return the region to our country. It is now important to anticipate eventualities that could worsen our situation. If the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) does not lift the East Timor decree, it could be used by the West as another pretext to further pressure us."
"New Perspectives Needed"
The government-oriented, English-languge Indonesian Observer (10/15): "It is time we acted like grown-ups, respected international agreements and not let our feelings get the better of us. This show of anti-West feeling serves no useful purpose and is bad for the economy of the country. It would be well for President Habibie to explain once again the whole background to this issue so that the minds of our people may be set at ease."
"We Protest Against Australia"
Muslim intellectual Republika declared (10/13): "We support Foreign Minister Alatas's strong protest to the UN against the arrogance and brutality of Interfet. As Alatas said, this action is truly deplorable. Bearing in mind the multinational forces' state-of-the-art equipment, and United States' intelligence contributions, is it so difficult to see a border marker and to identify the personnel behind it as militia or Indonesian officers? Can they still mistake Indonesian mobile brigade posts for militia camps? They should have been able to differentiate long ago. This does not make sense."
"Strong Protest Necessary Over Motaain Incident"
Ruling Golkar Party's Suara Karya emphasized (10/13): "The Motaain incident not only shows the lack of professionalism and discipline of Australian forces, but also reflects [Australian Prime Minister] Howard's and the Australian military's political platform and blueprint for East Timor. The Indonesian government must take this seriously, and seek to convince the UN and the world that Australian forces have been reckless. We hope that the Indonesian military contemplates firm action in response to the possibility Australian personnel will repeat such actions in the future."
"Will Bombing Jakarta Be Next?"
Nationalistic tabloid Rakyat Merdeka asked (10/13): "Should we continue to be indifferent and allow a blunder in the East Timor matter to roll along based upon foreign fabrications? Will we let Australia and its allies ruin Indonesia's national pride and dignity? Last time, one of our police officers was killed and the Interfet apologized for the error.
"Next time, they will apologize because one of their aircraft was unable to correctly read a map and thus launched missiles at Maumere, East Nusa Tenggara. Nor is it impossible that Jakarta could be bombed after an aircraft is 'blown off course,' and so on."
"Behavior Of The Interfet Troops"
According to pro-government, Islamic-oriented Pelita (10/13): "We want the UN to be clear about the true role Australia is taking. If Australia wants to bring peace to East Timor in the UN's name, it must be fair toward warring parties and seek peace between them. Australia should not be hostile to one side. That does not reflect UN goals and will only make it difficult to complete the job in East Timor.... The government must remain calm and wise and not be carried away by emotion in dealing with the Australian Interfet troops' behavior, which seems deliberately provocative."
"Beware Of Australia's Maneuvers"
Independent afternoon Berita Buana insisted (10/12): "We must be aware of Canberra's manuever. In one way or another, using broad diplomatic access, they will always attempt to corner Indonesia, and especially the military. We had best take prompt action reporting this problem to the UN rather than remaining idle. Australia has taken advantage of our diplomatic weakness. Our media must devote more reporting to this issue. For their part, the Australian media put this issue on the front page...and in reporting on websites that corner us.... Australia wants to eliminate pro-integration groups as soon as possible. Australia has an interest in having troops in East Timor. There is some sort of hidden interest, namely controlling East Timor through cooperation with the Falintil."
"Firm Action Against Interfet"
Armed Forces' daily ABRI recommended (10/13): "There is nothing to be done right now but to cool down and stop issuing inappropriate statements about one another. Neither Indonesia nor Australia intend to sever ties."
"Border Incidents"
In the view of the government-oriented, English-language Indonesian Observer (10/13): "The good sign we see from the incident is that the military leaders of the two countries have a common wish to discuss their differences aimed at avoiding more serious differences which in turn can endanger the bilateral relations. Indonesia and Australia must not lose their cool on the intrinsic strategic values of their relationship. We are sure that better times will come and both sides should always maintain long-term considerations uppermost in their minds."
"Koh And Human Rights"
Ruling Golkar Party's Suara Karya asserted (10/12): "Reports that Interfet has allowed those groups to retain their arms are not mistaken. This prevents pro-Indonesian East Timorese from returning home to live on their land, as is their right. Perhaps Koh's mission was only to support UNAMET plans and bolster Cosgrove's statement about protecting East Timor only for pro-independence groups."
"Mobile Brigade Member Shot By Interfet"
According to independent, afternoon Suara Bangsa (10/11): "The shots fired at Indonesian security forces on the West Timor border certainly demonstrate the brutality of Interfet's Australian troops, which U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Harold Koh was still defending last Saturday as a force that had never committed any human rights violations in East Timor."
"Interfet Forces Violate Indonesian Sovereignty"
Armed Forces' ABRI indicated (10/11): "The UN must review irregularities concerning Australian Interfet troops. The UN must assert that Interfet's task is to restore security and create peace between warring parties in East Timor. Interfet forces cannot side with pro-independence militias by hunting, capturing, torturing and killing pro-integration militias. The UN must firmly underscore that Interfet is not in East Timor to eradicate pro-integration militias and violate Indonesia's sovereignty."
"East Timor-East Nusa Tenggara Border Incident"
Independent afternoon Suara Pembaruan opined (10/11): "That such an incident can happen must be questioned and deplored. Logically, with accords in place, such things should not happen. Interfet is in a difficult position. The armed contact occurred due to waning coordination and communication with the Indonesian military and police. There is a lack of accurate information about the location of outposts, particularly along the East and West Timor borders. In fact, the Indonesian government had earlier warned Interfet not to violate Indonesian waters or borders."
"Indonesia Must Back Resettlement Of Refugees"
Independent afternoon Suara Pembaruan contended (10/10): "Where refugees are concerned, Indonesia must not merely evaluate the human rights violations, but also the effects of the psychological pressures, the problem of emergency camps in West Timor, and the financial burden. What must be noted is the spotlight, especially from international human rights bodies such as the the Carter Center, on militia intimidation and violence. Resettling the refugees is the answer. This must be a sincere endeavor, not a political maneuver to achieve particular goals. Indonesia must not give the impression that it seeks to hold the refugees, or even allow militias to pressure the refugees and use the West Timor border as a militia base. This creates the impression that Indonesia hopes to keep the refugees. This would give weight to charges that the Indonesian military and government were behind the pro-integration militia activities."
"The UN Blind And Deaf"
Armed Forces' ABRI judged (10/9): "The East Timor crisis represents a hot issue that serves as evidence of how dull the UN's human rights instincts are. We have all seen from the outset how the UN has turned a blind eye and deaf ear to different points of view in East Timor. The UN only listens to Western media, Australian media, and local media which dislike Indonesian officials. As a matter of fact, there have been many untruths. But, they pay no attention to the balanced information. Only a few Western media have reported on press lies and Australian massacres in East Timor."
"A General's Extradition"
Independent afternoon Suara Pembaruan held (10/9): "We question the connection between Pinochet's extradition and Indonesia's current situation. To relate it to current domestic hot button issues, East Timor is the relevant one. The Indonesian military's 1975 invasion and 1976 integration of East Timor were connected to the era's global political situation, like the quiet U.S. and Australian support for it due to fears that communism would take power in the region. Unfortunately, changing circumstances prompted the United States and Australia to wash their hands of consequences and impacts of past military interference in East Timor, including numerous human rights violations."
"Disband The Militias"
The government-oriented Indonesian Observer stressed (10/7): "It is hoped that East Timorese spiritual leader Bishop Belo, who has just returned yesterday from his visit to Portugal and the Vatican, will be able to reconcile the warring parties there. We like to call on the government to disarm the militias and put an end to their war games, because they are a liability to the government. After repeatedly denying that the government has backed the militias, it should now disband these paramilitary units, and get them to do useful work. In this way the government can gain more credibility, and avoid a flare-up in armed contact between the militias and Interfet, an encounter that may have far-reaching repercussions."
"The Issue Is The Military"
Independent news weekly Tempo opined (10/5): "The definition of political reform has become clear: Remove the military's dual function. There are many ways to express it. Some demand an immediate end to armed violence, and a reaffirmation of civilian supremacy. At home, the students clearly want that. Foreign parties, such as U.S. Secretary of Defense William Cohen, have openly and plainly asked President Habibie and General Wiranto to assent to the military operating under civilian control. Otherwise, the international community will find it difficult to maintain equanimity in relations with Indonesia."
"Justice For East Timor"
The leading, independent, English-language Jakarta Post held (10/4): "Given the currently prevailing circumstances in Indonesia, the only way for the UN to satisfactorily investigate human rights abuses in East Timor would be to hold its own independent inquiry. Another option would have been to ensure Indonesian's National Commission on Human Rights was able to work as a truly independent body, free of any outside influence, particularly from the government. That, however, is difficult to achieve as long as the military remains effectively in control of civilian politics and the civilian administration."
"It Is Not Because Of U.S. Pressure"
Nationalistic tabloid Rakyat Merdeka editorialized (10/2): "It was implicitly indicated that the United States does not want a soldier to rule this country. Regarding General Wiranto's possible presidential run, one can conclude that [Cohen's] remarks were directed at Wiranto. Diplomatically, this is really inappropriate. Military spokesman Sudradjat's statement that it is none of United States' business is correct.... Finally, we must accept the bitter truth that the United States has been ruthless, meddling in our domestic affairs. However, we could just [feel like] fulfilling their desire since that is [factually] in line with the people's aspiration. Yet, if the People's Consultative Assembly comes up with the outcome just in line with the United States' desire, that is certainly not fashioned because of U.S. pressure but rather of our own work. The world should not note it wrongly."
"Message Passed On By U.S. Secretary Of Defense"
Independent afternoon Suara Pembaruan said (10/2): "The suspension of military programs...demonstrates how stern the United States has been to Indonesia, regardless of the facts on the United States' blessing Indonesia's invasion to East Timor and United States' lack of concern with U.S.-made arms being used in East Timor operations. Indeed, we are a sovereign country and nothing of the external interference can have the justification. But, in this era of globalization, we really cannot isolate ourselves only to defend a narrow-minded viewpoint.
"If the term 'critical turning point' could be captured as something to ponder, the test would then, lie on the current general session of the People's Consultative Assembly, whether or not the military [faction] will be able to listen to the people's conscience of who deserves ruling the country."
"Cohen's Views And Duties Of The Military In Defense"
Leading independent Kompas held (10/2): "We find Cohen's statement very clear. The decision is in the hands of Indonesia, especially the military (TNI).... Besides, what Cohen said is just reasonable, especially when we observe the latest developments. After TNI went neutral in the general elections, the next step naturally would be consolidation pertaining the roles and professions in the state life. Regardless of the various acts of violence that put TNI in the charges of involvement, military power would likely move forwards in a way that Cohen says. At this point where TNI is termed continue supporting and encouraging a successful political transformation of Indonesia. Let a democratic civilian rule be established firmly along with the rules agreed by all the national elements."
JAPAN: "Non-Interference Obstructs ASEAN's Further Development"
Liberal Mainichi's Manila correspondent Fujita observed (10/11): "Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir criticized what he called Australian troops' 'belligerence' toward unarmed militias in East Timor.... As a journalist who has covered the East Timor crisis, I cannot help saying Mr. Mahathir's criticism is quite unreasonable. I strongly believe Australian troops have no other choice but to 'show force,' 'threaten' and prevent militias from striking back 'from the bush' at the peacekeepers. What we should keep in mind is the fact that the Australia-led multinational peacekeeping force is restoring law and order to East Timor without delay. The ASEAN nations have proved to be a mere 'paper tiger' in dealing with the East Timor crisis, which can be called a regional problem. In fact, the Asian countries had been so deeply stuck with the ASEAN principle of non-interference with domestic affairs of another member country that they rarely discussed the crisis before the UN's dispatching of peacekeepers. It appears that this 'hardened' ASEAN principle of 'noninterference' is obstructing the organization's further development."
"Tokyo Must Give Frank Advice To Jakarta"
Liberal Asahi's editorial pointed out (10/4): "As the crisis in East Timor continues, the People's Consultative Assembly, Indonesia's highest legislative body, has convened. Will the assembly vote for the independence of East Timor? Whom will it elect as the next president of Indonesia? Vested with the power to decide on these important issues, the assembly holds sway over Indonesia's future.... Japan, which maintains close political and economic relations with Indonesia, should be in a position to give advice to the Indonesian government in many ways--frankly and from a broad perspective. First, Tokyo will have to urge Jakarta to remove stumbling blocks to restoring law and order to East Timor. Indonesia should also be advised to cooperate with multinational peacekeepers in clearing the way for a smooth start of the interim UN administration in the former Portuguese colony. Second, Indonesia must disarm militias in East Timor as soon as possible to enable the world body to start relief and other humanitarian work for the refugees. If aggravated Indonesian feelings get out of hand, the situation will have serious effects on the whole of Asia. Japan and other Asian countries will have to convey their concern to Indonesian governmental and military leaders. Despite its blunders in the East Timor crisis, the Indonesian military, led by Defense Minister General Wiranto, has strengthened its voice in politics. The military's excessive involvement in politics will create further confusion, which will in turn obstruct democratization in Indonesia."
AUSTRALIA: "What Jakarta Says On Timor
In the view of the liberal Sydney Morning Herald (10/12): "If there is one lesson above all from the dramatic events in East Timor this year it is that there is all too often a difference between what Indonesia says and what Indonesia does. The lesson has been a difficult one, especially for those in Australia who had placed trust on Indonesia's capacity and willingness to keep its word. The lesson was driven home with Indonesia's failure to honor its undertaking to the international community to maintain security in East Timor before, during and after the August 30 referendum. Indonesia not only failed in that undertaking, but actively subverted it.... This scorched earth policy has been portrayed by Jakarta as a spontaneous outburst springing from the natural patriotism, impossible to restrain, of the militia. That is a convenient gloss to put on an orgy of death and destruction that could never have proceeded on the scale it did without official sanction. The scorched earth policy was a nothing less than officially sanctioned vindictiveness against the East Timorese people. It was in direct breach of Indonesia's international obligations but never acknowledged as such. This background is important in the context of the first exchange of fire between Indonesian forces and Australian troops of the Interfet on Sunday afternoon.... Comments such as those yesterday by the Indonesian foreign minister, Mr. Ali Alatas, describing the Interfet troops as 'trigger happy' are unhelpful to say the least. Ignoring the early admission of error by the Indonesian troops involved, Mr Alatas also said: 'I am quite surprised that the Interfet, which is supposed to be equipped with very sophisticated equipment, can make such an error.' Talking such nonsense, Mr. Alatas squanders credibility and serves his country ill. When an incident as serious as this occurs it is essential that there be no dissimulation from any quarter about what really happened. It is essential that the United Nations be fully informed. Interfet is in East Timor on UN business and with UN approval. Indonesia says it is cooperating in this with the United Nations. But when it is plain that it is not, the international community must not be left in any doubt about it."
NEW ZEALAND: "In For The Long Haul"
Wellington's leading morning newspaper, the conservative Dominion, judged (10/11): "As the full extent of the destruction of communities, buildings, facilities and administration sinks in, so does the realization that countries such as New Zealand must gear themselves to stay for the long haul. The outrage that put pressure on the government to act to stop the slaughter must now be translated into a determination to provide generous humanitarian and civil aid.... Even without the militia's orgy of destruction, an independent East Timor was always going to be poor and, deprived of the funds formerly channeled from Jakarta, heavily dependent on outside aid.... While last month's military intervention was unavoidable, East Timor will demand disproportionate attention and vast sums of money for years to come."
"Difficult But Worthy Mission Ahead"
Hamilton's conservative Waikato Times stressed (10/8): "Since the independence referendum on August 30, East Timor has been devastated, and thousands of people are missing or held in camps in West Timor. It took weeks for peacekeeping troops to arrive. Aid is just managing to trickle through. Was there a better way? Probably not. Weak president or not, the Indonesian military was never going to cooperate in moves to give East Timor independence. Appeasement posing as diplomacy...has never worked. The UN-backed soldiers who now patrol the shattered streets of Dili are making a difference. They have stopped some of the bloodshed, collusion, looting and burning. But they cannot solve the massive long-term problems facing the fledgling independent state of Timor. The UN, meanwhile, is preparing a force to replace the Australian-led peacekeepers. The new mission is likely to be long, difficult and expensive--and it will be worth it if an independent and peaceful East Timor rises from the ashes."
PHILIPPINES: "Siazon's Blunder"
Liberal Today (10/12), in another editorial criticizing Foreign Affairs Secretary Siazon on the Philippines' stand on East Timor, said: "The Philippines under 'President' Siazon--forget the other guy--has, once again, joined our country to other murdering Asian states in putting up yet another roadblock to the successful completion of the international rescue of East Timor.... Siazon is merely encouraging the militia in their murderous pursuits by denying their nemesis the peace of mind to nail them. Siazon's no vote to the treaty of immunity tells the militia to go ahead, keep on killing, these guys will think twice before shooting back."
"We Did Not Have The Courage Of Our Beliefs"
Veteran journalist Alejandro Roces wrote in his column in the independent, conservative Philippine Star (10/5): "It seems to us that the Philippines is in a quandary. If it believes that no atrocities were committed, then, why did we send troops to East Timor? On the other hand, if atrocities were committed, why did they take an opposite stand in the UN? Either way, we are wrong.... The way I see it, the stand our delegate took on the UN issue is a negation of the very purpose of the UN itself. It is true that he is in the UN to protect Philippine interests, but it is to the Philippine interest that our neighboring countries adhere to the rules that the UN was established for. According to our foreign affairs secretary, their official stand on Timor was not to embarrass Indonesia. What he has succeeded in doing is embarrassing the Philippines. If we don't even have the courage of our beliefs, then, we don't even deserve membership in the UN.... The stand we take in the UN should be one that can make us hold our heads up with pride. Not something that makes us hang our heads in shame."
"A Shameful Vote"
The independent, conservative Philippine Star opined (10/3), "With no thanks to the Philippines and the social club that is ASEAN, the UN Human Rights Commission is proceeding with its inquiry into atrocities committed in East Timor.... Acting on a proposal of the European Union, the 53-member...commission had called for the international probe.... Among the 12 dissenters were the Philippines, China and other Asian nations except Japan and South Korea, which abstained. In New York, (Philippine) Foreign Affairs Secretary Domingo Siazon explained that Indonesia must not be humiliated or the nation could fall apart, affecting the Philippines. A press statement from the Department of Foreign Affairs explained that the Philippines favored a probe, but only if conducted by Indonesia.... There's one glaring problem here. Since Indonesian troops themselves are accused of abetting and even directly participating in the atrocities, how can Jakarta conduct an impartial probe of its own troops? Our government worries about Indonesia's humiliation but not about the suppression of democracy and massacres in East Timor. We should hang our heads in shame."
"Philippines Should Have 'Gone Along' With Pro-Human Rights UN Vote"
Jun Bautista, in his column in the new and independent Philippine Post, wrote (10/3): "The Philippine vote against the UN human rights mission to East Timor is a foreign policy decision, in line with the non-interference principle among ASEAN countries. This is also guided by the country's 'indebtedness' to Indonesia on such matters as the (southern Philippines' secessionist group) MNLF (Moro National Liberation Front) problem and past oil crunches.... But I believe we should have gone along with the human rights vote, or at least abstained from it. That is not inconsistency on my part. It's the human rights believer in me."
SINGAPORE: "Let East Timor Go"
The pro-government Straits Times had this to say (10/12): "The shootings in the past few days between Australian troops spearheading the UN peacekeeping force and the pro-Indonesia militias show just how precarious the security situation is in East Timor.... One thing is clear. The UN force cannot function properly in East Timor without Indonesia's acquiescence, and the political will must be found for this to happen. Unfortunately, Indonesia's political leaders are now deeply preoccupied with the October 20 presidential election, and they have left East Timor in the hands of the generals, who are smarting over their humiliation in the former Portuguese colony they annexed in 1976.... The Indonesian military cannot turn back the clock, but it has not yet come to terms with the reality that the East Timorese have voted overwhelmingly for independence. Like it or not, Indonesia must live up to its international obligations. True, it is within the military's powers to destabilize East Timor and make life insecure and intolerable for the East Timorese. The territory will be a UN protectorate for years to come. But what good will this do for Indonesia? It is wiser for the military to cut its losses now."
"For U.S., TNI Still Key To Indonesia's Stability"
The pro-government Straits Times ran this piece on its editorial page (10/4) by U.S. correspondent Lee Siew Hua: "On the surface, the Pentagon made a rhetorical shift when Defense Secretary William Cohen adopted a harsher tone in Jakarta, accusing the Indonesian military of 'aiding and abetting' the militia rampage in East Timor. Under the surface, there is still a lot of stability in the U.S.-Indonesia relationship.... [In private,] defense officials...are still concerned about Indonesian stability and are sticking with the presupposition that the military is the principal national institution that can be a stabilizing force in the country at a time of vast political transition. The rhetorical shuffle may or may not influence Indonesian action. But it will put the United States more in line with the UN and other entities seeking to compel the Indonesian defense force (TNI) elements to quit East Timor. While it is clear that the United States does not want an adversarial relationship with the Indonesian military, the American perception of TNI chief General Wiranto is more ambivalent."
THAILAND: "Testing Times Good For ASEAN"
Kanjana Spindler remarked in the top-circulation, moderately conservative Bangkok Post (10/13): "Interfet...happens to be led by Australians because they were the closest, most willing and most able to respond quickly to the humanitarian tragedy that unfolded after the referendum. But ASEAN has a greater responsibility to solve its own problems, the policy of non-interference notwithstanding. How the ASEAN members of Interfet handle their responsibilities, both on the ground militarily and at the Manila summit diplomatically, will color to a very large extent the relevance of ASEAN in the years ahead."
"Thailand Supporting East Timor's Secession"
Elite Matichon commented (10/11): "Thailand's playing the macho tiger by sending a battalion of troops to East Timor is not merely a fun handling of international diplomacy, because it carries a clear implication: Thailand is in to support East Timor's secession from Indonesia. To be sure, B. J. Habibie and upwards of 200 million Indonesians do not see things the way the UN or other Westerners do."
"Between The Devil And Deep Blue Sea"
Don Pathan commented in the independent, English-language Nation (10/5): "Many (Foreign) Ministry officials would like to see the crisis solved in a low-profile manner and in the end, let the half-island state drift away from Southeast Asia into the hands of Australia, New Zealand and their friends in the Pacific.
"Other officials said East Timor's becoming an ASEAN member is just a matter of time. In the meantime, the Thai brass are crossing their fingers as they march their men to a far-away place to engage in a conflict few fully understand. All are hoping that the operation goes well because public support they are currently enjoying could quickly disappear if East Timor turns out to be a death trap for the well intentioned foreigners."
"Time For Jakarta To Be Accountable"
The lead editorial of the top-circulation, moderately conservative Bangkok Post emphasized (10/3): "The massacre of nine Catholic humanitarian workers has now established a new watershed of terror in East Timor.... Indonesia's deplorable response has been to claim that UN troops from Australia are terrorists because they have stopped and disarmed several dozen members of the lawless militia--without firing a shot. Indonesia owes us more than this disagreeable response to a serious problem it has created and now is trying to abandon.... The consequences of creating a killing field, and then walking away, could be serious. Indonesia must conduct a serious investigation of where it went wrong in East Timor, and it must find and punish any Indonesian military figures responsible. In brief, Indonesia must act in a civilized manner in East Timor, or put its international reputation at risk."
EUROPE
BRITAIN: "Canberra Tries To Curb Disquiet At Timor Role"
The independent Financial Times stated (10/4): "Australia has launched an attempt to curb growing regional tensions over its leading role in the East Timor peacekeeping operation. Canberra's push has been prompted by the rapid deterioration of bilateral relations with Jakarta and complaints by Asian countries--including Thailand--about the aggressiveness of Australian commanders of the current peacekeeping force. Australia is urging the UN to make the switch to a UN blue helmet operation. Australia's initiative follows international controversy over Australian assertions that peacekeepers could cross the border of East Timor into Indonesian-controlled West Timor ir they were in hot pursuit of militia groups."
FRANCE: "East Timor: The Wind Is Turning"
Yves Pitette argued in Catholic La Croix (10/4): "East Timor's hope of independence depends more than ever on the international force.... The United States is doing all it can to involve neighboring countries. This is another way to isolate Indonesia even more and to reenforce the chances for East Timor.... During his visit in Singapore, William Cohen called for ASEAN's 'clear and open' support for East Timor."
ITALY: "Kofi Annan: UN Protectorate Needed In East Timor"
A report from New York in Rome's centrist Il Messaggero pointed out (10/7): "A UN protectorate on East Timor for the next two or three years...is the ambitious plan which the UN secretary general, Kofi Annan, intends to present to the UN Security Council.... But a series of serious obstacles are already emerging about the proposal. First of all, the position of the United States, especially as far as the costs of the operation is involved. Washington has been protesting for some time about the 31 percent share of UN expenses decided for the United States. It wants to participate with a maximum of 25 percent and has not paid yet even one penny of the $37 million owed by the United States for the Kosovo mission."
POLAND: "Organization Of Helpless Nations"
Rafal Ziemkiewicz observed in rightist Gazeta Polska (10/7): "At first, the UN looked like a good uncle to the Timorese.
"The UN fed them with fairy tales of human rights...and encouraged them to trust the organization.... But then, having organized the referendum, the UN stood by watching the Indonesian troops and militants slaughter defenseless people, and saying they could not do anything about it because the oppressors did not agree to let in peacekeeping forces. [The Indonesians] agreed only...after the island had been turned into ashes and its population either murdered or deported. And they agreed only after the United States had threatened them with economic sanctions. Were it not for one telephone call from the U.S. president, the entire respectable UN--which employs hundreds of thousands of employees...could have kissed the backside of an Indonesian war criminal.... Unfortunately for the Timorese, their island does not lie in the zone of U.S. strategic interests. Otherwise, the United States would have again brushed the theatrical Security Council aside and solved the issue on its own. Alas, unlike what hysterical far-leftists and chauvinists are saying, the United States is not a 'world policeman' but just a great country which safeguards its security and intervenes when necessary in the far foregrounds--but not beyond them."
RUSSIA: "ASEAN Impotent"
Aleksandr Zditovetsky filed from Kuala Lumpur for centrist Nezavisimaya Gazeta (10/15): "ASEAN, proud of its consensus rules in solving problems, has this time demonstrated a consensus on its inability to act in a crisis, which has made other regions lead the way in rescuing East Timor. It seems that only the people of that long-suffering territory can objectively judge Interfet's actions in East Timor."
THE NETHERLANDS: "Somber Future Prospects For Indonesia"
Amsterdam's independent, financial Het Financieele Dagblad carried an op-ed piece (10/5) which catalogued the lack of legitimate authority, ethnic diversity, democracy and transparent decision-making in Indonesia, said in part: "The role of the army can only be reduced if balanced and dynamic political and economic structures are created. But that will not happen soon. The Chinese, who dominate the economy, are being consciously undermined by Jakarta. Habibie himself plays an important role in breaking down their power."
MIDDLE EAST
EGYPT: "U.S. Connection?"
Hazem Abdel Rahman, columnist, pro-government Al Ahram, maintained (10/6): "There is news that Indonesia troops responsible for the most horrible crimes and violations of human rights in East Timor received training in the United States.... When the scandal was exposed and U.S. Congress was forced to ban this training program in the early 1990's, Washington resorted to secret intelligence to secure this program.... Washington has placed means of brutal repression in Soeharto's hands, and American public opinion did not care about the victims of these tools as long they were the enemies of American interests.... Analysis shows that part of the East Timor crisis is due to American advice given to Soeharto in the mid-1960's about using Islam to block the spread of Marxism among the youth.... But have East Timorese suffered repression alone, while the rest of Moslem Indonesians enjoyed freedom and democracy?.... It is not fair or objective to focus on what is happening in East Timor and ignore what the rest of the Indonesian people have suffered.... When the picture is complete, the Soeharto regime will emerge as the worst and most brutal regime in the second half of the twentieth century. Not only this, but this regime came to power with American instigation, worked for years under American guidance, and it is not unlikely that it is continuing to work under this guidance."
"False Pretenses And U.S. Concern For Human Rights"
Mohamed Hassan, columnist for pro-government Al Akhbar, insisted (10/3): "When Secretary Cohen stands to announce the U.S. concern for the violations of human rights in Indonesia...he is committing the crime of insulting intellects and mocking listeners. Truly, Cohen is one of the hawks of the American administration, which poses itself the defender of human rights in the world, but Pentagon documents revealed the falsehood of this claim. They reveal how the United States is involved in the violations of human rights in East Timor itself. This is a scandal in all measures.... Cohen should better resign immediately and leave this false pretenses aside."
SOUTH ASIA
INDIA: "Reflections On East Timor"
The centrist Hindu featured this analysis (10/9) by former Under Secretary General of th UN, C. V. Narasimhan: "The major flaw in the agreement [on a referendum for East Timor] was that security for the exercise at the ballot box and its aftermath was to be provided by the Indonesian military and police.... Was this tragedy avoidable? In my judgment, yes. All that was necessary was to provide for, in the tripartite agreement, a small UN-sponsored multinational force, for a limited period--say a month before...and after [the voting]--to ensure peace and security. This judgment is not the wisdom of hindsight; it is based on precedent.... In East Timor, there was every reason to foresee trouble. The danger signs were clearly visible."
"Kashmir Is Not East Timor"
V.S. Mani of the School of International Law at Jawaharlal Nehru University opined in the centrist Hindu (10/7): "There seems to be a generally shared misconception that self-determination is synonymous with secession. The friendly relations declaration, adopted by the UN General Assembly...in 1970...clarifies that it principally applies to colonial situations, i.e., a situation of gross subjugation of a people by an oppressive power, usually an alien power. This is typically the case in East Timor, and the UN General Assembly has consistently recognised it so.... So long as India remains democratic, no state of the Indian union can claim any right of secession; its people will have to persist in pursuing their rights within the framework of the union.... Evidently, the UN...and has never since considered Jammu and Kashmir as a colonial question. Kashmir, indeed, is not East Timor."
"Dawn In East Timor"
In the words of the nationalist Hindustan Times (10/5): "It will be no mean task for the Interfet and other agencies in East Timor to deliver humanitarian relief to the starving people and augment security in the territory. But an even more uphill task faces Jakarta's political leaders as they confront the reality of suddenly having a brand new nation in their backyard, and one which, till recently, has been an article of Indonesian nationalist faith. Post-referendum events in East Timor conclusively dashed any hopes that Indonesian leaders might have had of the Timorese rallying to Jakarta once they were faced with the exhilarating prospect of independence. It is difficult to say how Jakarta will now reconcile to this uncomfortable fact, especially when Indonesia is about to become the world's third-largest democracy.... For a start, Jakarta will now have to learn to live without the resources in the Timor Gap--that stretch of water between East Timor and Australia. There is also the possibility of Jakarta losing Aceh where rebels are fighting for an independent Islamic state. Aceh's secession would be a major economic blow to Indonesia as the western province has rich gas reserves. All this could contribute to political instability in Jakarta."
"September Cocktails"
An editorial in the centrist Asian Age held (10/2), "The truth is that it is the abysmally slow process of reforms under the Habibie regime which has led to the hardening of stance among large sections of the civilian population.... Predictably, a vulnerable and cornered Habibie has softened his stance and the draconian bill has been temporarily withdrawn, but a tense silence prevails on the streets of Jakarta, with an unstated cease-fire replacing the fierce stand-off. Ironically, the June 7 election results are still to be finalized and Habibie is trying to retain the presidential chair despite the upsurge, widespread anarchy, a virtual economic collapse in Indonesia, and sustained unrest in East Timor.... The intervention of the international UN force has brought in a partial sense of stability, but it will take a long time to wipe out the scars of violence which has destroyed...the people of Indonesia and East Timor, it is hoped that the light at the end of the tunnel will become a moment of hope, reconstruction and resurrection."
WESTERN HEMISPHERE
BRAZIL: "Two Scales"
Independent Jornal da Tarde featured these remarks by Ambassador J.O. de Meira Penna (10/4): "When one talked about Bosnia, Kosovo or before that, the Gulf War, the ideologues who dominate the means of communication showed themselves radically contrary to any intervention of our armed forces to comply with requests by the UN. In Timor, on the contrary, there was immediate applause for sending a miserable troop of 50 soldiers to help the interventionist forces.... Two weights, two measures. Why the difference?"
For more information, please contact:
U.S. Information Agency
Office of Public Liaison
Telephone: (202) 619-4355
10/15/99
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