21 March 2005 Media Statement
Indonesian President to visit NZ
Prime Minister Helen Clark announced today that Indonesian President Dr Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will visit New Zealand
on 2 and 3 April.
“President Yudhoyono’s visit is very welcome. As Indonesia’s first directly elected leader, President Yudhoyono
represents a new era in Indonesian politics. President Yudhoyono’s commitment to the process of reform and
democratisation is impressive and we support him in this,” Helen Clark said.
“The visit will also be an opportunity to discuss the achievements of President Yudhoyono’s new administration and to
explore ways that New Zealand and Indonesia might deepen their co-operation.
“Indonesia is of great importance to New Zealand. It is the largest country in South East Asia and a leader in the
Asia-Pacific region. President Yudhoyono’s visit will enable us to share views on developments in Asia of strategic
importance to both countries, as well as on shared global concerns, such as security and development.
“New Zealand’s response to the Boxing Day tsunami disaster, which so terribly affected the Indonesian provinces of Aceh
and Northern Sumatra, demonstrated this country's desire to be a good neighbour in times of crisis.
“We will also discuss ways of deepening our economic relationship, including through securing better air links,” Helen
Clark said.
Details of President Yudhoyono’s programme will be issued later.
ENDS