ABC AUSTRALIA, 29/04/2003 19:38:13
Aceh rebels stick to independence target
Separatist rebels in the Indonesian province of Aceh province say they are still willing
to hold talks with the Indonesian Government to try to save a peace pact.
But the rebels say they will not drop their long-term goal of independence.
Spokesman for the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) Sofyan Ibrahim Tiba says his group
still wants dialogue to settle the Aceh issue as it is the only way the conflict can be
solved. But he says the group's political aim of independence remains.
The Indonesian Government said on Monday it was willing to talk but said the GAM
must stop pushing for independence and must start disarming.
The government gave the rebels between one and two weeks to respond, saying a
security operation would eventually be launched if the rebels ignore the opportunity for
peace.
29/04/2003 19:38:13 | ABC Radio Australia News
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