Wiretapping Case Won't Impact Trade With Australia

Jakarta, Nov 20 (Antara) - Deputy Trade Minister Bayu Krisnamurthi has asserted that the alleged wiretapping by Australia would not disturb trade relations between Indonesia and Australia. "The two countries are certainly facing a political problem with regard to the wiretapping issue, but it will not have any significant impact on trade relations," Bayu said here on Wednesday. Indonesian`s relations with Australia were strained after the latest revelation of wiretapping incidents by Australia, targeting a number of top Indonesian officials. Bayu, however, noted that the continuation of a wide range of cooperation between the two countries would follow the direction of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. The president on Wednesday had temporarily suspended cooperation between the two countries in a number of areas, pending the settlement of alleged spy issues. The president disclosed the decision to the media after meeting the Indonesian Ambassador to Australia, Najib Riphat Kesoema, and a number of ministers.