Joe Pitts: “I rise today to urge the government of Indonesia to ensure that the roots of democracy are firmly established so the…”

“I rise today to urge the government of Indonesia to ensure that the roots of democracy are firmly established so the Indonesian people can enjoy peace and prosperity now and in the future. President Wahid should be commended for the steps he has taken to help build a foundation for democracy, and other leaders in Indonesia should be encouraged to build on that foundation. Unfortunately, there are individuals and organizations who desire to foment violence, bloodshed and destruction in communities in the Malukus, Aceh, Irian Jaya, Padang and other regions. I urge the government of Indonesia to bring to justice those responsible for recent and past criminal attacks against the Indonesian people and to assure that those criminal leaders are prosecuted, especially Malaskar Jihad, who committed violence against Muslims and Christians in the Malukus. Mr. Speaker, I urge the government of Indonesia to ensure that perpetrators of crime in Indonesia are punished for their crimes and brought to justice.”