Dan Boyle
Question:237 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on developments in Aceh, Indonesia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16925/03]
Vol. 568 No. 5
237 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on developments in Aceh, Indonesia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16925/03]
I am gravely concerned at the resumption of hostilities on 19 May, in Aceh, between government forces and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM). I urge the Indonesian Government and GAM to resume negotiations without delay, as dialogue between the parties, and a commitment to honour fully their obligations under the cease-fire agreement of 19 December 2002, represent the only way to resolve this conflict.
On 19 May, at the outset of the current military action, the Indonesia Government stated that the operation was to have an integrated approach, consisting of military action, humanitarian aid, the restoration of civil institutions and upholding the rule of law. The Indonesian authorities have a duty to guarantee public order and security in Aceh, and protect the Acehnese people from any collateral damage caused by the military operation. The humanitarian needs of the people of Aceh should be given the utmost priority. The Indonesian government also has a duty to guard against human rights violations, and to take all necessary measures to ensure the protection of human rights defenders.