Netherlands Fully Recognizes Indonesian Territory

Nusa Dua, Bali, Nov 7 (Antara) - The Netherlands Foreign Affairs Minister, Frans Timmermans, said his country fully recognizes Indonesian territory and its borders. "Indonesia is a sovereign country within existing borders. The Netherlands would not change those borders, as we are fully respectful of the state�s sovereignty and its territorial integrity," said Timmermans, responding to questions about the Papua rebellion movement here, Thursday. According to Timmermans, the setting up of an office of the West Papua National Committee (KNPB) in the Netherlands in August 2013 was a private initiative. He confirmed that the Dutch government had nothing to do with the establishment of the office. "Both the central and local authorities, and all citizens in the Netherlands, are free to establish offices of organizations. But that does not mean that the KNPB is supported by the central or local government in our country," said Timmermans in an interview with Antara. Relating to human rights in Papua, the Minister said President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has taken the correct policy in focusing on Papua�s development. "I think President Yudhoyono has taken the right policy. This will lead to a better situation for citizens in Papua. People at the individual level just want to look for a better life, have jobs and a better future for their children," Timmermans said. Timmermans visited Indonesia to attend the Bali Democracy Forum (BDF) on 7-8 of November, 2013 in Nusa Dua, Bali. The BDF is a forum that discusses the development of democracy in several countries in Asia Pacific. At least 81 countries and three international organizations attended the forum, which was opened by President Yudhoyono, Sultan of Brunei Darussalam Hassanal Bolkiah and Timor Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao.