Michael D. Higgins
Question:144 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will table a motion at the EU Council of Ministers calling for an immediate embargo on EU arms sales to Indonesia (details supplied). [15023/03]
Written Answers. - Arms Trade.
It is the view of the Government that at this time, it is imperative that the EU engages constructively with Indonesia, so that the new democracy there can continue to develop and that human rights and fundamental freedoms are protected.
In September 1999, the EU adopted a four month embargo on arms sales to Indonesia in an attempt to increase pressure on Jakarta to respect the vote for independence in East Timor in August 1999. On the expiry of the embargo on 17 January 2000 a review was carried out by the EU, and due to the developments in Indonesia at the time, which included the first ever contested presidential elections, a change of government and the relinquishing of Indonesia's territorial claim to East Timor, it was decided that the arms embargo was no longer necessary and should not be renewed.
However, all exports of arms from EU countries must conform with the EU code of conduct on arms exports, which establishes criteria to control the export of arms. Ireland was involved in the establishment of this politically binding code, which was adopted by the EU General Affairs Council in June 1998. The code lists the factors to be taken into account when deciding whether to allow an export of military goods. These factors include respect for human rights and the internal situation in the country of final destination, as well as the preservation of regional peace, security and stability.
I participated in the External Relations Council in April 2003, which adopted conclusions on Indonesia. The conclusions confirmed the EU's support for Indonesia's territorial integrity and reaffirmed the EU's aspiration to build a closer partnership with Indonesia. They stressed at the same time the importance that the Indonesian Government should further pursue its commitment to human rights and to ensure stability and security in Indonesia, with full respect for the law. The Council further urged the government to address humanitarian needs and make further progress in political, judicial and legal reforms.
I met with the Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Noer Hasan Wirajuda, during the EU-ASEAN ministerial meeting in Brussels on 27 January 2003 and I hope to have a further opportunity to meet with Minister Wirajuda to review issues of common concern at the ASEM Foreign Ministers Meeting which he will host in Bali in July 2003.
Question No. 145 answered with Question No. 54.