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AWPA condemns proposed security treaty with Indonesia

Australia West Papua Association (Sydney) Press release - May 21, 2006

Australia West Papua Association spokesperson Joe Collins expressed grave concerns at the proposed new security treaty with Indonesia and in particular at the Indonesian demand for a clause in the treaty urging Canberra to reject West Papuan claims for independence.

"The West Papuan people have a right to choose their own future. The UN states that "all peoples have the right to self-determination" and Australia appears to deny this right to the West Papuan people.

Joe Collins said "there is too much secrecy about this proposed security treaty. We do not know the terms of this agreement or to what extend we may be pulled in".

Recent human rights violations include the killing of two unarmed demonstrators in Wamena.

"While West Papuans are continuing to be killed, Australia should not be negotiating a security agreement which will restore military relations with Indonesia in any form".

For more information contact Joe Collins (+612 99601698) 04077 85797.

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