[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 20 (Monday, May 19, 2003)]
[Page 609]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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Statement on the Indonesia-Free Aceh Movement Agreement To Resume 
Discussions on Implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement

May 15, 2003

    The United States welcomes the decision of the Government of 
Indonesia and the leadership of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) to resume 
discussions in Tokyo this weekend aimed at implementing the December 
2002 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA) between Indonesia and the 
GAM. The United States strongly supports efforts to pursue a negotiated 
peace in Aceh within the framework of a unified Indonesia.
    I commend President Megawati for demonstrating her Government's 
commitment to the Aceh peace process and for her willingness to go the 
extra mile in pursuit of peace. In returning to the negotiating table, 
the two sides are taking a concrete step toward a better future for the 
people of Aceh. I call on the leadership of the GAM to renew its 
commitment to a peaceful solution in Aceh and for both sides to pursue 
good faith implementation of the COHA. The United States appreciates the 
determined efforts of the Henri Dunant Center to advance the cause of 
peace and justice for Aceh. I also wish to thank Prime Minister Koizumi 
and the Government of Japan for hosting the negotiations between 
Indonesia and the GAM and taking an active leadership role in this 
process.