Trial by fire

Article Abstract:

The governments of Malaysia and Singapore are angry that Indonesia is not doing enough to combat the smog problem caused by the forest fires. The Asean countries are normally polite and deferential towards Indonesia but the smog problem is causing serious health problems across Southeast Asia. Asean countries are meant to work together but they are not doing so at the moment and this is casting a cloud over Asean's 30th anniversary celebrations, in particular, a summit meeting due to be held in Kuala Lumpur in December 1997.

International Affairs, Intnl Political Relations, Political aspects, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Southeast Asia, Forest fires, Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Indonesian foreign relations

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Timor surprise: unexpected declaration shocks Jakarta

Article Abstract:

Indonesia's govt seemed shocked when a meeting between pro- and anti-govt Timorese leaders in Austria led to the Burg Schlaining Declaration. Its proposals include more such meetings, each timed to take place just before the UN-sponsored talks on Timor's future. It also mentioned UN Resolution 37/30, much to Jakarta's dismay. Most observers think the meeting may have been too successful for its own good, as Jakarta may not support subsequent conclaves. The pro-govt group subsequently issued a clarifying statement.

Asia, United Nations, East Timor, Timorese foreign relations

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Still talking: diplomatic spat fails to derail East Timor talks

Article Abstract:

President Nelson Mandela of South Africa is urging Indonesian president Suharto to release Jose Alexandre Xanana Gusmao, the Fretilin guerrilla leader who led the armed struggle against Indonesia's annexation of East Timor, the former Portuguese colony. However, his letter to the president went astray and Suharto learned of its contents through media reports, but the incident does not seem to have damaged Mandela's credibility as a broker for peace.

Political activity, Mandela, Nelson

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