ABC AUSTRALIA, 02/04/2003 16:20:51
Australia: Indonesia-Vanuatu tension won't impact region
Australia says tensions between Indonesia and Vanuatu does not have broader
implications for the South Pacific.
Indonesia has threatened to downgrade diplomatic relations with Vanuatu over the
opening of an office for the Papuan independence movement in the capital, Port Vila.
Our reporter Graeme Dobell says Indonesia has sent a diplomatic note to Vanuatu
saying it will review the status and level of its diplomatic ties with Vanuatu.
Australia's foreign minister, Alexander Downer, says it is a matter between Vanuatu
and Indonesia.
Mr Downer says the issue should not impact on Indonesia's relations with the South
Pacific.
"There's obviously tension over that specific issue, but there isn't tension throughout
the region with Indonesia," he said.
02/04/2003 16:20:51 | ABC Radio Australia News
© 2001 Australian Broadcasting Corporation |
