The Indonesian people and government are to be warmly congratulated
on what appears to be a remarkably peaceful ballot.
Indonesia's first fully free elections since 1955, they are a
landmark in Indonesia's history. The electoral campaign and the
enthusiastic voter turn-out represent a real celebration of democracy.
Voting day was a tremendous demonstration of the commitment of Indonesians
to exercise their democratic rights in a peaceful way. All Indonesia's
friends will be heartened.
I would also like to take the opportunity to acknowledge President
Habibie's personal commitment to holding democratic elections.
The significance of the elections for Indonesia and our whole region
is hard to overestimate. The elections pave the way for Indonesia
for the first time in more than a generation to be governed by a democratically
elected government.
My government looks forward to working closely with whatever government
emerges as a result of the elections. We will continue to place the
highest priority on strengthening our links with Indonesia and supporting
Indonesia's political and economic reform programme.
Australia made a substantial contribution to the elections. We contributed
$15 million in assistance and a 25-strong team of election observers.
The Australian Electoral Commission has been on the ground for months
working with their Indonesian counterparts to help make the elections
a success.
I thank those Australians who helped before and during the elections.
8 June 1999