BBC, June 18, 2004
BBC Worldwide Monitoring
Source: The National web site, Port Moresby, in English 18 Jun 04
UN official praises Papua New Guinea, Indonesia over Irian Jaya
refugee issue
Text of report by Clifford Faiparik, published by Papua New Guinea newspaperThe
National web site on 18 June
The United Nations High Commission for Refugees has commended Papua New
Guinea for addressing the needs of West Papuan refugees despite its problems.
UNHCR regional representative Michael Gabaudan was particularly pleased with
PNG's registration and issuance of certificates to children born in the East Awin
refugee camp, Western Province since 1984.
"This will give them legal rights to pursue other important challenges like education
and employment on the international level," Mr Gabaudan said. He praised the PNG
and Indonesi! an governments for effectively handling this problem.
"Problems associated with refugees sometimes create conflict between two countries
that usually turn out to be violent," Mr Gabaudan said. Mr Gabaudan added it was a
remarkable feat on international standards as most countries are irritated by refugees
and usually turn a blind eye on them. He made the remarks on Tuesday 15 June after
a three-day tour of the country to observe UNHCR operations, especially the West
Papua refugee situation.
© BBC MMIV
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