Mr. President,

At the outset, I personally would like to extend my sincere congratulations to you, Sir, on your assumption of the presidency for the month of August. We have every confidence that under your wise and able guidance, the issues before the Council will be brought to a successful conclusion. Allow me also to extend felicitations to your distinguished predecessor, Ambassador Hasmy Agam, Permanent Representative of Malaysia, for his skillful stewardship of the Council's activities last month.

Mr. President,

Let me begin by stressing that the East Timor question has reached the current stage due to the series of bold and far-reaching initiatives by the Indonesian Government under President B.J. Habibie. First, on 9 June 1998 the Indonesian Government formally expressed its readiness to grant a special status to East Timor with wide-ranging autonomy. Then, on 27 January 1999 it offered to part ways with East Timor in a peaceful, orderly and honorable manner if autonomy is rejected. It was these initiatives that provided positive impetus to the talks held under UN auspices since 1983, culminating in the 5 May Agreements. As a consequence of these initiatives, we will witness the historic event in three days time the popular consultation in East Timor.

This meeting of the Security Council has been convened against the backdrop of the approaching crucial interim phase. It constitutes an important period between the finalization of the holding of the popular consultation and the commencement of the implementation of its outcome. It is therefore most relevant and appropriate to recall the positive developments leading up to the present time.

On its part, the Government of Indonesia is determined and committed to shoulder its responsibilities in accordance with the 5 May 1999 Agreements. In particular, it has exerted serious efforts to ensure that the security situation is conducive to the holding of a free, fair and peaceful popular consultation. This has been evident by the successful conclusion of the registration process held from 16 July until 6 August 1999, thereby completing the first operational phase of the popular consultation. It is pertinent to note that this was conducted in an orderly manner, as acknowledged by the UNAMET, which registered over 451,792 East Timorese at 200 registration centers. To participate in this historic process, my delegation is pleased to inform that eligible voters traveled in large numbers without any impediments to the nearest location in order to register. Likewise, it was gratifying that internally displaced persons in East Timor and West Timor were able to register. Credit for the achievement of these endeavors is largely due to the flourishing cooperation existing between the UNAMET and the Indonesian Task Force for the Implementation of the Popular Consultation in East Timor (Task Force), the Provincial Government of East Timor, the Social Department, the Health Department, as well as the police, ICRC, UNHCR and UNICEF.

Mr. President,

As we approach the final days leading up to 30 August 1999, the situation on the ground has recorded remarkable improvements. Reflective of its seriousness to enhance law and order in East Timor at this critical juncture, the Indonesian Government has deployed some 8,000 police personnel to assure peace both before the popular consultation as well after its conclusion. This high ratio of 1 policeman for every 100 East Timorese attests to the sincerity of the Indonesian authorities to commit large numbers of law enforcement officials as well as the resources to maintain a tranquil and secure environment. It is also expected that the number of police would be increased if circumstances deem it necessary. While it is indeed unfortunate that some incidents have occurred in certain places attributable to the actions of both sides, but in each instance the Indonesian police acted promptly to isolate them while carrying out the necessary investigations. The allegations of "impunity" with respect to the Maliana and Liquica incidents have been dealt with by taking stern judicial measures against the perpetrators. Therefore, the impartiality of the police in investigating all cases referred to by the UNAMET, whether these are committed by the pro-integration or the pro-independence groups have instilled trust in their professional abilities. Concerning the most recent incident that took place on 26 August 1999, in Dili as referred to by the Ambassador of Portugal, my delegation regrets the demise of four persons, two supporters of the pro-integration group and two from the pro-independence group. An investigation into the causes of this incident by the police is still underway. Allow me to elaborate further on this. Following a relatively peaceful and orderly period of campaigning that had begun on 14 August 1999, it is deeply regrettable that clashes erupted yesterday, when members of the pro-independence group carried out acts of provocation against the supporters of pro-integration. What actually occurred was, pro-independence supporters pelted rocks on pro-integration members. Thereafter, tension was heightened when two pro-integration supporters, including a former District Assemblyman, were kidnapped and killed by members of the pro-independence group. It was these killings that profoundly angered pro-integration members who counter-attacked the office of the CNRT in Lecidere, Dili, causing two deaths of pro-independence supporters. The police had immediately launched an investigation into the incident and the results are awaited. In the final days leading up to the popular consultation, my delegation sincerely hopes that all sides will exercise self-restraint and contribute to a calm and tranquil environment.

Mr. President,

The adoption of the Code of Conduct for the Campaign by UNAMET and the East Timorese figures, in line with the 5 May 1999 Agreements, to ensure an orderly campaign is also an encouraging factor. In view of the fact that the campaign period is being conducted in the presence of a large number of observers from around the world - be they parliamentarians, NGOs, etc. - provide a degree of guarantee that the process is conducted in a secure and safe environment.

Similarly, the steps towards the implementation of the Code of Conduct on Security by the Commission for Peace and Stability to ensure the laying down of arms and disarmament by the contending factions is a welcome development. It is pertinent to note that over 600 various weapons have been turned over under the Commission's supervision and witnessed by UNAMET. Furthermore, the status-of-mission agreement (SOMA) has been signed by the Government of Indonesia and came into effect on 23 August 1999, containing provisions, inter alia, on granting various privileges and immunities for the functioning of UNAMET, providing the necessary facilities, as well as the need for UNAMET to carry out its duties while complying with the laws and regulations of Indonesia and refraining from activities that are incompatible with its duties.

Another development that the Government of Indonesia welcomes wholeheartedly is the convening by the United Nations of a meeting between the leaders of the East Timorese groups in Jakarta on 22 August 1999. Among the positive results reached at that meeting was that each respective side submitted 10 names of those who would be participating in the Consultative Commission which they themselves had agreed to establish. It is hoped that at the next meeting, both sides will come to an agreement on a common position with regard to the cantonment of their personnel.

Mr. President,

My delegation welcomes all these notable developments as reflecting concrete progress achieved in accordance with the planned schedule and also despite the constraints of time, the determination of all sides to fulfill their responsibilities and obligations. In this context, my delegation recalls that during the holding of national elections in June 1999, many international observers had expressed serious concerns that such an event was unlikely to take place at all in view of the fact that this was held against the backdrop of the May incidents. In spite of this, the Government of Indonesia's ardent desire and unswerving commitment to lay the viable underpinnings of a democratic process prevailed. The world witnessed that the 7 June 1999 elections were widely considered as the most democratic exercise ever held in Indonesia since 1955. Notwithstanding the erroneous perceptions held by some and the over-dramatization of the situation, the Indonesian national elections was brought to a conclusion in a smooth and effective way.

Bearing in mind this most recent experience in our nation's history, it is imperative that perceptions are accordingly adjusted and over-dramatization avoided if the popular consultation in East Timor is to be successfully implemented. These aspects were deemed essential by my delegation in having promoted an atmosphere conducive for the campaign period that was completed today. This campaign has been of paramount importance to the people of East Timor for it offered them historic political choices while placing on their leaders the need to demonstrate a high level of wisdom and sagacity. It affords an unique opportunity to bring to an end differences between the pro-integration and the pro-independence groups, thereby opening up a new era in their lives which is rendered even more essential as they stand at the threshold of the next millennium. What is needed now is deep reflection of the choices to be made in the next few days that will profoundly impact their lives forever. At this juncture, it is also important for the people of East Timor to focus on tangible issues that could affect their futures not only politically but also economically, socially and culturally. And this historic event will finally fulfill their deep aspirations and fervent desires.

It would, therefore, be most helpful to the East Timorese - as well as to Indonesia and the international community if distortion of facts were avoided. It is unfortunate that misperceptions continue to be cultivated, as though the majority of East Timorese are still living under colonial domination and given the chance, they would opt to part ways with Indonesia; while on the other hand, East Timorese that have expressed their wish to remain part of Indonesia are immediately and arbitrarily condemned as "militarybacked militias". This is completely contrary to the practices of democracy where tolerance as well as freedom of opinion and expression are of paramount importance. The fact remains that there are two groups in East Timor and none should be dismissed out of hand.

It is our earnest hope that the cooling-off period on 28-29 August 1999, will have a salutary impact in bringing about an atmosphere of tranquility which is an essential prerequisite for the holding of the popular consultation, on 30 August 1999. This is a critical moment for all concerned parties to demonstrate a sense of impartiality in order to earn the trust and confidence of the East Timorese in the popular consultation and would necessarily include a degree of transparency during this entire process of popular consultation.

Mr. President,

The adoption of the draft resolution before the Council today will have a significant impact on the interim phase of the popular consultation. In this regard, my delegation would like to acknowledge the report of the Secretary-General and the recommendations contained therein, as reflected in the aforementioned resolution. Given its cooperation and pragmatism during this entire process commencing with its initiative that led to the 5 May 1999 Agreements, Indonesia has agreed to the expansion of various components of UNAMET based upon the principle of equitable geographical representation, in the interim phase, in order to maintain its international and universal character. It has shown yet again its flexibility especially in its acceptance of a police component of 410, and another 50 personnel to recruit and train a new East Timorese police force. Likewise Indonesia has consented to increase the military component of up to 300. These UN military liaison officers will continue to undertake military liaison functions with the Indonesian armed forces (TNI) and to be involved in the work of the East Timorese bodies established to promote peace, stability and reconciliation as well as to provide advice to the Special Representative for the East Timor popular consultation on security matters, pursuant to the implementation of the 5 May 1999 Agreements. With regard to UNAMET, my delegation notes its serious efforts in discharging its tasks as mandated by the Council. We should, therefore, like to express our appreciation to UNAMET and its personnel who have demonstrated the highest standard of impartiality. However, from our observations in the field, certain individuals comprising of UNAMET personnel are not adhering to this principle while carrying out their duties and who are adversely impacting the whole process of popular consultation on the ground. In view of this, my delegation therefore expresses its reservations concerning preambular paragraph 6 which "commends UNAMET for the impartial and effective implementation of its mandate".

Finally, Mr. President, in the search for a just, comprehensive and internationally acceptable solution to the question of East Timor under the Tripartite Dialogue as well as in the implementation of 5 May 1999 Agreements, Indonesia's commitment has been unwavering. It has over the past sixteen years, despite the obstacles and challenges strewn along the way, held steadfast to its position that if it stayed on the appropriate path such a solution to this long-standing issue would be attained. And it is in this spirit of optimism and hope that we face the popular consultation on 30 August 1999. My delegation therefore hopes that the resolution before us is a step in that direction.

Last but not least, Mr. President, I would be remiss if I do not take this opportunity to express my Government's sincere appreciation to those countries that have contributed civilian police and military personnel to UNAMET, thereby enabling it to undertake this difficult, yet very important responsibility.

Thank you, Mr. President.