I warmly congratulate Mr Abdurrahman Wahid on his election as president of Indonesia.
This is the first democratic election of Indonesia’s president in thirty years and therefore a very important and welcome step.
For many years Mr Wahid has championed the values of tolerance and decency in public life. As a leading religious and public figure he has been a strong supporter of political reform in Indonesia.
Australia and Indonesia are neighbours. We share important common interests. Australia has always extended the hand of friendship towards Indonesia.
The Government will aim to build a good working relationship with the new President and his government.
I can assure Mr Wahid of the goodwill of the Australian government, our readiness to open a new chapter in our relationship on the basis of mutual respect, and our support as he faces the huge challenge of leading Indonesia through political transition and achieving economic recovery.
20 October 1999